§ 74. Sir C. Edwardsasked the Minister without Portfolio the position in regard to the proposed Severn Bridge, near Newport, Monmouthshire; whether plans and positions have been agreed to; whether it has been decided to give it priority in post-war reconstruction; and whether, in the latest developments, a Severn Barrage has been linked up with the construction of this bridge?
§ The Minister without Portfolio (Sir William Jowitt)The present position is that possible alternative sites for the proposed road crossing of the Severn are now being investigated. I am unable at this Stage to say whether it will be practicable to give priority to this project, but we intend to work out every detail of whichever of the schemes may be thought best so that everything will be ready if and when it is decided to proceed with the work. The Severn Barrage proposals, one of which includes a road and rail crossing, are to be reviewed by a technical body the composition of which was announced yesterday by my right hon. and gallant Friend the Minister of Fuel and Power.
Mr. DavidsonWill any action on this question depend on the financial position of the country at some future date?
§ Sir W. JowittI do not know. The whole matter, obviously, would have to be reviewed.