§ 22. Mr. Boydenasked the Minister of Transport why he did not include the main Bishop Auckland by-pass in the Durham County Council's rolling programme for the year 1963–64.
§ Mr. BoydenDoes the hon. Gentleman recollect that when he answered 1306 a Question of mine of 15th November about the West Auckland by-pass he made some favourable comments and said that he would look at the question of whether it should be built in view of the economic difficulties of the area? Why has the Minister cut out of Durham County Council's rolling programme the Bishop Auckland by-pass, which is a preceding scheme of the West Auckland by-pass?
§ Mr. HayI understand that Durham County Council has put up three schemes to us for inclusion in the years, 1961 to 1964, inclusive. One of these schemes, at Holdforth, was selected for 1962–63. Another scheme, the Durham South Relief Road, was selected for the next year. No decision has yet been taken for 1964–65.
§ Mr. BoydenIn view of the comment which he made that it looks to be a good scheme in relation to the economic background of the area, will he see that it is included in this 1963 programme?
§ Mr. HayNo, Sir. I cannot do so. A lot will depend on the state of play at the time and the views of the county council on priorities.