§ 42. Sir Charles Edwardsasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether the site for the proposed Severn Bridge has been definitely decided upon; whether the plan is 1955 prepared or in course of preparation; whether the material has been decided upon of which it is to be built; and, generally, what is the position at present.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport (Mr. Noel-Baker)It is proposed that the crossing of the Severn should be made from Beachley to Aust. There are certain difficulties in the making of a bridge, which have not yet been overcome; my Noble Friend is therefore considering a scheme for a tunnel. As soon as a final decision on this point has been made, the preparation of detailed plans will, I hope, be put in hand.
§ Mr. WoodburnWould the hon. Gentleman keep in mind that there are no difficulties of that kind arising about the Forth Bridge, and that he could get on with that immediately?
§ Mr. LipsonWill the whole expense of this bridge be borne by the Government?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerI should like notice of that question, but I think not the whole expense.