HC Deb 22 June 1953 vol 516 cc1449-50
1. Air Commodore Harvey

asked the Minister of Transport what plans he has made for improving the main Birmingham-South Wales road; and when he expects to put them into operation.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport (Mr. Gurney Braithwaite)

Surveys have been made and plans are being prepared for a new road in Worcestershire from near Droit-wich to Upton-on-Severn, a new road from Upton-on-Severn to Ross-on-Wye, including a by-pass to that town, and the improvement of the road, with diversions, between Abergavenny and Hirwaun. These works would all form part of the principal route from Birmingham to the Swansea area. Plans are also in preparation for a bridge over the Severn and a by-pass to Newport, which would enable traffic from the Swansea and Cardiff districts to join the Birmingham-Bristol road at Almondsbury. I cannot say when it will be possible to put these works in hand.

Air Commodore Harvey

While it is very satisfactory to know plans are being made, is my hon. Friend aware that his answer is not wholly satisfactory because we are not told when they are to be implemented? Will he ask the Minister to try to give us some information about when the work will be put in hand, because it is important?

Mr. Braithwaite

As soon as funds are available.

Mr. G. Thomas

Is the Minister aware that we have been hearing talk about this matter for many years, but that it is considered by all the industrialists of South Wales that this matter is of considerable urgency if trading profits are to be improved?

Mr. Braithwaite

As the economic position of the country steadily improves under the present Administration talk will be superseded by action.

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