§ 28. Mr. Ridsdaleasked the Minister of Transport what further plans she has in mind to improve road communications to North-East Essex following the development of Harwich, Parkeston, as a liner train terminal.
§ Mr. John MorrisPlans to provide for developing road traffic to and from Harwich and Parkeston involve continuation of the comprehensive improvement of A12 from London to Woodbridge and the issue of grant to Essex County Council for schemes on A133 and A604. The improvement of A604 from Elmstead Market to west of Ramsey, including a by-pass of Wix, is included in the extension of the road programme announced today.
§ Mr. RidsdaleI welcome that improvement, but is any work being done to get a motorway from the Midlands to the East Coast ports, as this is a vital requirement for the trade of the East Coast ports, and the Government will waste money if they do not invest in such a project?
§ Mr. MorrisIf the hon. Gentleman will put down a Question on that particular issue, I shall try to answer it. Having regard to the measure of authorisation of capital expenditure which my right hon. Friend has agreed in respect of Parkeston, amounting to £8 million, it is essential that there should be good road links in order to serve this very important development.