§ 6. Mr. Holtasked the Minister of Transport what progress has been made by his Department in purchasing land in connection with the 63 miles of proposed new north-south motorway through Lancashire; and when he proposes to authorise a start on its construction.
Mr. BraithwaiteThe route is being surveyed, but no land has yet been bought for the road and I am afraid I cannot say when it will be constructed.
§ Mr. HoltIs the Minister aware that many power stations in this area have difficulty in getting rid of their ashes and that, if he would only buy this land, considerable economy could be achieved in the eventual construction of these roads by allowing the power stations to put their ashes on the land now?
Mr. VaneWill the Minister remember that the economy of the whole country also depends on good agricultural land remaining in food production?
§ Mr. PooleBefore the Minister sterilises any more good agricultural land will he consider the advantage of taking off the roads, and keeping them off, some of the 250,000 surplus road vehicles which are now being run?
Mr. BraithwaiteThe hon. Gentleman seems to be anticipating a debate which may take place later this Session.