§ 23. Mr. Gowerasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation to what extent he will, in the next financial year, authorise a further increase in road construction, improvement and repairs in particular parts of Wales where unemployment is above the average level for the United Kingdom as a whole; what increased expenditure will be involved; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WatkinsonIt is not my intention to announce my detailed future plans in particular areas, and so, I am afraid, I have nothing to add to the Answer I gave to my hon. Friend on 19th November.
§ Mr. GowerHas my right hon. Friend noted that in the interests of increased production in these areas the electricity industry is permitted increased expenditure? Cannot he take similar action?
§ Mr. WatkinsonI have not said I was not looking at the programme, but that at the moment I have nothing to add to the Answer I gave in November.
§ Mr. P. MorrisIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that if he is to increase the road construction programme in Wales, where the rate of unemployment is above the national average, it will mean the inclusion in his programme of road construction in every part of Wales?
§ Mr. WatkinsonI am sure that is what every part of Wales would want in any case.