§ 54. Sir F. Medlicottasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation to what extent, when considering whether to authorise road construction and improvement outside the normal five-day week, his Department compares the extra cost of the overtime working with the additional economic benefit to the community from the consequent reduction in traffic congestion and improvement in the flow of traffic.
§ Mr. WatkinsonContract periods for each scheme are settled individually and take into account all factors including cost, effects on traffic and nuisance to local residents. Within these considerations I am well aware of the importance of road works being completed at the earliest possible time.
§ Sir F. MedlicottIs my right hon. Friend aware that a large part of the cost of the delay caused by traffic congestion falls on motorists, both private and commercial, who already pay enormous sums by way of taxation for road construction? Are they not entitled to further consideration from the Treasury in this matter?
§ Mr. WatkinsonMost of the large road schemes in the country are on schedule and a good many are ahead of schedule. I do not think one can do better than 410 that. One has to plan these things with some regard to the fact that some residents do not like road works going on at night.