HC Deb 22 June 1938 vol 337 c1078
75. Major Oscar Guest

asked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the publicity given to road development in the London area since the issue of the Bressey Report, the Government are taking any steps to safeguard against increase in the cost of acquiring land required for new roads?

Mr. Burgin

The responsibility for safeguarding must rest on the highway authorities concerned. They alone have the necessary powers. Expenditure for these purposes, if approved, ranks for grants.

An Hon. Member

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there has already been considerable speculation in the neighbourhood of proposed new arterial roads as a result of the publication of this report?

Sir Percy Harris

As the Government have to pay a good percentage of the cost would it not be wise in their own interests to point out to local authorities that they should take into consideration the interests of their localities in view of the activities of these speculators?

Mr. Burgin

Perhaps the question and answer will have a result in that direction. My answer is to point out that the responsibility for safeguarding is a highway authority responsibility.