§ 33 and 34. Sir S. Storeyasked the Ministry of Transport (1) whether he proposes to authorise the construction of the link between M.62 and Trafford Park as recommended in the South-East Lancashire and North-East Cheshire Highway Plan; and when the work will be begun;
(2) if he will implement the proposals of the South-East Lancashire and North-East Cheshire Highway plan for diverting the tanker traffic from Carrington which now passes through Urmston.
§ Vice-Admiral Hughes HallettThis highway plan, which was prepared by a committee of the surveyors and engineers of the highway authorities concerned, is at present being considered by those authorities. We must await their recommendations for a phased long-term programme of road improvements for the area as a whole before we can say whether these particular schemes should be undertaken.
§ Sir S. StoreyIs it not a fact that we have put forward definite recommendations for these roads? Is my hon. and gallant Friend aware that the heavy concentration of industry in Trafford Park urgently needs a connection to the M.62? Is he also aware that the bringing of the 391 oil terminal to Carrington means that heavy tankers go through the residential quarter of Urmston? Is he further aware that these roads are built only for light traffic? Will he see that these recommendations are carried out as quickly as possible?
§ Vice-Admiral Hughes HallettWe are well aware of all those points. On receipt of the Report, discussions will be necessary and the various authorities will have to agree on a programme. Meanwhile our divisional road engineer has agreed to annual programmes totalling about £4 million.
§ Sir S. StoreyWhat does my hon. and gallant Friend mean by receipt of the Report? It has been issued and contains recommendations.
§ Vice-Admiral Hughes HallettAs I have said, the recommendations are being considered by the authorities themselves. Perhaps my hon. Friend did not quite hear me. The Report was prepared by their surveyors and engineers.