§ 11. Mr. Hoosonasked the Secretary of State for Wales why draft plans for 9 by-passes in Welsh towns such as Welsh-pool are officially categorised as confidential, in view of his policy to invite public discussion of such plans before decisions are taken.
§ Mr. George ThomasThe proposal which I eventually publish as a draft order under the Highways Act, 1959, is normally the result of careful consideration of several earlier proposals. If every one of these earlier proposals were published while I was considering it, this would cause widespread and quite unnecessary alarm and blight. The Highways Act provides for public discussion after I publish proposals in draft. I am always ready to change my proposals if the discussion indicates that this is desirable.
§ Mr. HoosonThe right hon. Gentleman does not quite take my point. Perhaps I might give as an example the Welshpool proposals, in respect of which a public meeting is suggested. The public do not know what the proposal is, whereas local bodies such as the council and the N.F.U. have seen the plans. Should not the public see them if we are to have informed discussion at a public meeting?
§ Mr. ThomasYes, Sir. A public meeting will be held in Welshpool as soon as possible after draft orders have been published to explain the proposals to the community. I am prepared to vary the proposals if I am satisfied that public opinion requires it.