HC Deb 25 February 1942 vol 378 cc196-7
38. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport the dates on which work started and finished on the new road between Park Road, Stretford, and Redclyffe Road, Barton; the amount of concrete authorised to be used; who financed the construction and surveying; and whether he will take action to have the road finished and opened for the public as soon as possible?

Mr. Noel-Baker

My predecessor informed my hon. Friend on 28th January that this is a private road constructed by the owners of the factories which front it, and I have no information as to when the work was begun, how it was financed or the quantities of materials used. As there are suitable alternative roads I do not think that the completion of the new road could be justified, in view of the urgent need for economy in the use of labour and materials.

Mr. Smith

Does not the Minister agree that the reply reveals a first-class scandal, because the concrete was used when we could not obtain concrete for air-raid shelters; and, is it not a concrete example of post-war considerations coming before our war needs? In view of these facts, will the Minister reconsider his reply?

Mr. Noel-Baker

As the original making of part of the road has been finished, I have no information on the matter. In regard to action to complete the road, I am sure that in the present stage the expenditure of further labour and materials could not be justified.

Mr. Smith

Will the Minister take steps to obtain information in order to give attention to the war needs of this area?

Mr. Noel-Baker

I will inquire. I am not sure that it is in my power, but if the hon. Member will give me any information he has I will certainly have it looked into.