HC Deb 27 June 1957 vol 572 c407
45. Mr. E. Johnson

asked the Prime Minister if he will introduce legislation to set up a Road Authority with power to raise loans for road construction.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I have been asked to reply. No, Sir. My right hon. Friend thinks that the present arrangement under which the road programme is in charge of Ministers responsible to Parliament is more satisfactory.

Mr. Johnson

Is my right hon. Friend aware that a road authority has been used with phenomenal success in Belgium? Will he at least study it and see what has been done there?

Mr. Butler

I am sure that my right hon. Friends the Prime Minister and the Minister of Transport will study any example, especially one put forward by my hon. Friend, but the Answer that I have given represents the view of my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister.