§ 37. Mr. Matthewsasked the Minister of Transport what plans he has for accommodating the increasing number of large heavy industrial vehicles which use the B.4102 road between South Birmingham, Solihull, Meriden and Coventry.
§ Mr. MarplesThe responsibility for initiating improvements to this route rests with the local highway authority. Works have recently been carried out to improve visibility at two junctions on B.4102 between Hampton in Arden and Catherine De Barnes Heath and a further scheme for the construction of a new stretch of road half a mile in length immediately to the west of the River Blythe is expected to be completed by the end of this year. A scheme for the improvement of Hampton Lane, Solihull, which forms part of this route is also being considered.
§ Mr. MatthewsI welcome my right hon. Friend's reply in regard to the improvements envisaged for this route. Is he aware that once the heavy commercial vehicles are off the road and diverted in other ways private motor cars are likely to travel very fast through the neighbouring village of Hampton in Arden? Would he take steps to enforce a strict speed limit through the village?
§ Mr. MarplesEnforcement is for the police. Fixing a speed limit is for my Department. I will consider my hon. Friend's suggestion.