§ 15. Mr. J. H. Osbornasked the Minister of Transport what progress she is making with the survey of the East-West Motorway routes, particularly between South Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire and Cheshire and Lancashire; and whether she will publish a White Paper.
§ Mr. SwinglerWe are at present considering a report on the study of trans-Pennine traffic movement carried out under the agency of West Riding County Council. My right hon. Friend hopes to be in a position to reach a decision on future strategy and priorities for the improvement of trans-Pennine communications after consultation with local authorities and other interested bodies. She does not propose to publish a White Paper.
§ Mr. OsbornMay we have some infomation as to when we shall know what route has been chosen and what decision has been made as the construction of good east-west communications is urgent? Both sides are grey areas.
§ Mr. SwinglerI appreciate the feeling of urgency on the part of those concerned. Copies of this report have only recently been sent to local authorities. The next stage is for us to enter into consultations and to get all the views of the local authorities. As soon thereafter as possible my right hon. Friend will issue a statement about the conclusions which we have made.
§ Mr. Peter M. JacksonWould my hon. Friend agree that it would be highly desirable that such a route should avoid the Peak District National Park?