HC Deb 27 October 1954 vol 531 cc1925-6
62. Mr. Storey

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he is now able to authorise the commencement of work upon a high-level bridge over the Manchester Ship Canal at Barton.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I am afraid not, Sir.

Mr. Storey

As my right hon. Friend seems not to be convinced by his recent visit to Barton Bridge by canal, when the bridge was open for his convenience, will he now agree to visit it by road, when it will probably be open for his inconvenience? Then perhaps he might be convinced.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

As my hon. Friend recalls, I saw this bridge from the water a little time ago. There is a good case for it, but there is a good case for a great many other schemes which have to be fitted into the programme.

Mr. Storey

This is the only case where the whole effect is against trade and the workers. There is no recreational suggestion, as there is in many other schemes that have been passed.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I should not like to say that this is by any manner of means the only case where this important factor applies.