HC Deb 08 April 1964 vol 692 cc980-1
13. Mr. Coulson

asked the Minister of Transport when he expects to receive the report of the consulting engineers he appointed in 1962 to inquire into road communications between Hull and the Great North Road; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Marples

I expect to receive the Report within two or three weeks. It is expected to be of wide scope. But the improvement of trunk road communications between Hull and the Great North Road is important and I will reach conclusions as quickly as possible. I have made provision for some of the work in the last extension of the trunk road programme in this Report.

Mr. Coulson

I thank my right hon. Friend for that reply. Is he aware that, in view of the urgency of this matter, there has been wide disappointment in Hull and East Riding over the length of time taken to produce the Report? Will he give an undertaking that, when it is received by him, he will arrange for publication of its salient points and urgent consideration of the principal recommendations?

Mr. Marples

I can promise my hon. Friend that I shall move as fast as I possibly can. The Report was commissioned in order that we could decide the best means of carrying out the recommendations to provide first-class communication between Hull and the Great North Road. The question of timing depends on decisions to be made when examining the Report and on necessary statutory procedures.

Sir L. Ropner

Has my right hon. Friend informed the consulting engineers of the importance attached to the fact that their recommendations should include the freeing of Selby Toll Bridge?

Mr. Marples

I have not drawn that to their attention, but I have no doubt that they will see this Question when it appears in HANSARD.