§ 51. Mr. Leckieasked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the congested state of that thoroughfare, he will hasten on the negotiations with the various local authorities for the widening of the main road between Walsall and Birmingham via Perry Barr; and when does he expect it will be completed?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport (Captain Austin Hudson)The road in question is under three different authorities. As regards the section within the area of the Walsall County Borough Council, my right hon. Friend has already made a grant, and the work will shortly begin. With regard to the section in the county of Stafford, a scheme for, reconstruction and widening has been approved in principle, and a compulsory purchase order for the land required has been confirmed. As regards the section in the area of the Birmingham County Borough Council, as soon as the proposed layout has been decided an application for a grant will be entertained.