§ 32. Mr. Bossomasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he can make a statement on his Ministry's proposals for postwar road development; what decisions have been made; and when will they be presented for consideration to the House?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerMy Ministry have prepared plans for a large number of road improvements, which can be carried out when conditions permit. But I am not yet able to make any statement about the general policy of the Government with regard to post-war road development, nor about the specific proposals which the Government has in view. Nor can I now foretell when it -will be necessary to ask for whatever statutory powers may be required.
§ Mr. BossomWill not my hon. Friend endeavour to expedite this information, because the lack of it is holding up development of many large housing proposals?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerYes, Sir. We have done a lot of work, and we are anxious to get on.
§ Mr. BossomWould my hon. Friend consider publishing that information as soon as possible, as it is most desirable that it be known?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerI do not think that we have yet reached a stage where we could usefully publish anything, as we might do more harm than good.
§ Mr. ShinwellHave the plans been sent to the Minister without Portfolio, and has he made any comment upon them?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerWe have been in consultation with the Minister without Portfolio.
§ Mr. ShinwellI asked whether the Minister without Portfolio had seen the plans and had made any comment.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerIt would be most improper for me to say what comment the Minister might have made.
§ Mr. BoothbyIs not the hon. Gentleman aware that speculative purchases of land at inflated prices are going on all the time and that if they are allowed to continue they will jeopardise any plant?