§ 28. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Transport when he expects to make a statement on the Report of the study he ordered into the question of tolls on motorways.
§ Mr. MarplesSoon after the Easter Recess.
§ Mr. DoddsDoes the right hon. Gentleman appreciate how many people are appalled that, in a modern age, there is a proposal to introduce tolls on motorways? Will he tell us, so that we may enjoy our holidays, how he can contemplate such a thing in this modern age? What is the reason for it?
§ Mr. MarplesNo proposals have been made, but a study has taken place. The result of that study and the announcement of the Government will be made soon after the Easter Recess.
§ Mr. Wingfield DigbyWhen considering this question, will my right hon. Friend regard tolls as a method of supplementing total road expenditure, so helping to relieve congestion on existing roads?
§ Mr. MarplesThere are many aspects of this toll problem, some of which tend to favour tolls, and others tend to be against them, but I hope that when the Government announce their decision it will be welcome to the House.
§ Mr. StraussWould it be useful to the right hon. Gentleman to know that if the final decision is in favour of tolls being imposed he will have very strong opposition from this side of the House?
§ Mr. MarplesI am grateful for that warning.