HC Deb 14 July 1969 vol 787 c11
47. Mr. Hooley

asked the Minister of Transport what priority is to be given to intermediate areas, particularly the South Yorkshire coalfield, in the trunk road schemes which form part of the recently announced £200 million rolling programme.

Mr. Bob Brown

Schemes announced for preparation will be considered for a place in the road programme when their preparation has reached a stage at which their costs and benefits can be assessed in detail and their relative priority determined. This will apply equally to schemes in the intermediate areas, including those in the South Yorkshire coalfield.

Mr. Hooley

Does not my hon. Friend think that the intermediate areas deserve something more than "equally", and will he consider giving them priority, since communications are an essential feature of setting up economic activity in these areas?

Mr. Brown

We can give priority only if the schemes in those areas attract high priority, taking account of all the benefits that they offer.