HC Deb 15 June 1955 vol 542 cc574-5
28. Mr. Awbery

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if, in view of the need for the construction of a roundabout at Redcliffe Way, Bristol, he will give consideration to the issuing of a grant so that the work can be proceeded with this year as the first step in the 5-year programme of the council.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I am afraid it will not be possible to make a grant for this scheme this year. I have, however, offered the city council grants totalling £41,000 for nine smaller schemes.

Mr. Awbery

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the early part of this year the Bristol City Council prepared a 5-year plan which was submitted to his divisional road engineer and, I presume, accepted? It is impossible to go on with the second-year part until the council finishes the first-year part, and this roundabout is in the first-year proposals. Will the Minister have a look at this matter and give the council the opportunity of carrying out the first-year plan in the first year?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I have, of course, studied the Bristol City Council proposals and, in fact, have this year authorised what is in my judgment the most urgent part of the scheme which was put forward, that in respect of the Deanery Road Bridge.

Mr. Awbery

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the engineer was notified in February of this scheme, and was it not given approval?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I am aware of the hon. Gentleman's view as to the priority to be accorded to the scheme, but the hon. Gentleman will appreciate that that view is not generally shared.