§ 8. Mr. Swinglerasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he is now in a position to approve the scheme to widen Friar Street in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
§ Mr. NugentThe borough council has already been informed that if it submits an application for a grant in the current financial year we are prepared to consider it favourably.
§ Mr. SwinglerIs the Joint Parliamentary Secretary aware that that small improvement will give some small satisfaction to the people of Newcastle-under-Lyme, for which we are grateful?
§ 9. Mr. Swinglerasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he will give Newcastle-under-Lyme Council authority to take all necessary steps to prepare for the trunk road improvement scheme from London Road to Milehouse Lane.
§ Mr. NugentThis is under consideration and we hope to take a decision shortly.
§ Mr. SwinglerIs the hon. Gentleman aware that nothing will satisfy the council and people of Newcastle-under-Lyme until approval has been given for the carrying out of this important trunk road improvement, which is becoming more and more urgent every day? Is he also aware that if he could give the council 1097 authority to acquire the small parcel of land that has not yet been acquired, in order to make ready the plans for the improvement, he would be in a better position to give his approval?
§ Mr. NugentThe hon. Member's assiduity in asking questions on this matter leaves us in no doubt of its importance. We are at present considering it, after the delegation called on us to tell us about it in detail, and I hope that my right hon. Friend will be able to give a decision very shortly.