HC Deb 02 February 1972 vol 830 cc433-4
24. Mr. Galbraith

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware of the public concern about the proposed route of the eastern flank of the Glasgow motorway box; what action he will take to allay it; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Younger

I am aware of the interest being shown in this part of Glasgow's Highway Plan, and I am sure the corporation will take it fully into account in developing specific proposals for the east flank of the Inner Ring Road.

Mr. Galbraith

I hope that my hon. Friend will not leave this entirely to Glasgow Corporation, which seems to have made up its mind. When so many towns are re-examining the need for urban roads, I hope that my hon. Friend will use his influence to get Glasgow to do the same.

Mr. Younger

I am well aware of my hon. Friend's feelings on this, with which I have a great deal of sympathy. It would be premature for me to express views either way until the corporation has put specific proposals to me. At that stage there will be full opportunity for objections to be made and considered at a public inquiry before decisions are taken.

Mr. Hugh D. Brown

I have no objection to intervention in matters east of Glasgow Cross by the hon. Member for Glasgow, Hillhead (Mr. Galbraith), but is this subject within the discussions which the Minister is having with the corporation on the phasing of the whole of the redevelopment programme?

Mr. Younger

No, this is not a specific subject, except in so far as anything affecting the long-term development plan of the city obviously has to be taken into account in terms of roads.