HC Deb 10 April 1957 vol 568 cc1107-8
31. Mr. Willey

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he has yet made a statement to the Tyne Tunnel Committee following his meeting with the deputation from the committee.

Mr. Watkinson

No, Sir. I cannot usefully do so until I have received and considered the views of all the interests concerned about the possibility of building a bridge.

Mr. Willey

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a great deal of interest in the matter and some suspicion about it? Will he do his best to expedite the consultations and see that a clear reply is given as early as possible?

Mr. Watkinson

Yes, Sir, I will. As my hon. Friend has already told the House, either he or I will wish to visit the site to inspect it before we come to a final decision.

Mr. D. Jones

How many more Ministers of Transport will have to visit the site before making up their minds whether to accede to the request of the local authorities that a tunnel should be built?

Mr. Watkinson

If the hon. Gentleman wants me to put the matter on one side, I shall be happy to accede to his request.