21. Mr. J. Wellsasked the Minister of Transport how many miles of the A.25 road have been improved in the past 10 years; haw many separate schemes this represents; how many miles are being improved at present, in haw many schemes; how many schemes are planned for the next five years, or other convenient period ahead; and what is the total cost of these schemes, past, present and future.
§ Mr. HaySome two and one half miles of the A.25 road have been improved in five different major schemes, all since 1958. One major scheme is in hand covering a quarter of a mile of the road. Nine major schemes covering seven miles are programmed for the next two or three years. The total costs of completed, present and planned schemes are £ 172,000, £ 32,000 and £ 918,000.
Mr. J. WellsI am grateful for that Answer, but is my hon. Friend aware that very nearly seven and a half miles of the A.25 road still has double white lines? This road is the main trunk road from Kent to the west of England, avoiding London. If he could expedite work on the seven miles now to be put in 521 hand, it would be extremely advantageous for members of the public living in Kent who have business commitments and wish to avoid London.
§ Mr. HayWe shall get on as quickly as we can. Our intention is to bring this road to the standard of a good three-lane road.