HC Deb 13 February 1957 vol 564 cc1250-1
35. Captain Pilkington

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he has yet decided on improvements at Marble Arch, Hyde Park Corner, Alexandra and Victoria Gates, with a view to easing the traffic congestion at these points.

Mr. Watkinson

The discussions concerning these various improvements are progressing but I still cannot say when I shall be in a position to announce any decisions.

Captain Pilkington

Will my right hon. Friend agree that these discussions have been going on for many years and that meanwhile the congestion gets worse and worse? As there are not very many great buildings involved, does he not agree that the operation should be comparatively cheap and that now, surely, is the time to take action?

Mr. Watkinson

I agree, but there are also many difficulties. For example, there is the question of how much of the park one is prepared to sacrifice to build a new road.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

As some of these are among the worst points of congestion in London, and discussion on action has gone on for years, can the right hon. Gentleman indicate that there is likely to be in the near future some final decision? The thing is really quite scandalous.

Mr. Watkinson

I think that the House will accept that I shall not find it difficult to co-operate with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Works, and I hope that we shall make some progress.