§ 44. Mr. Ridleyasked the Minister of Transport when he intends to let contracts for the southern section of the Bristol-Birmingham Motorway.
§ Mr. MarplesA scheme is being prepared for extending the Birmingham-Bristol Motorway southwards from Twyning to East Brent in Somerset. I cannot say when the contracts will be let: construction will depend on completion of the statutory processes and on the availability of funds.
§ Mr. RidleyIs my right hon. Friend aware that the traffic congestion in Tewkesbury has become quite appalling? Until the completion of the first stage of the motorway, will my right hon. Friend take emergency measures to make at least a short by-pass section available for an early start, in view of the congestion of the main road to the south?
§ Mr. MarplesI am sorry about the congestion in Tewkesbury, but the answer will be this motorway. I doubt whether it is worth while to take emergency measures.
§ Mr. WebsterIs my right hon. Friend aware that I am glad to hear what he said about an extension south from Bristol to East Brent? Can he give any further idea of when the work will begin?
§ Mr. MarplesI said in my original Answer that I cannot say when the contract will be let. Construction depends on the completion of statutory processes, which are not in my hands at all, and on the availability of funds.
§ Mr. RidleyIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest opportunity.