HC Deb 31 July 1972 vol 842 cc12-3
13. Mr. Coleman

asked the Secretary of State for Wales when the Urban Motorways Committee will report on matters affecting Wales.

Mr. Peter Thomas

The Urban Motorways Committee, whose remit covers Wales as well as England, has recently presented its report. It is expected to be published in the autumn.

Mr. Coleman

The right hon. and learned Gentleman will be aware of the problems suffered by a resident of Gilfach Road and I am grateful to him for his consideration of this matter. But is the right hon. and learned Gentleman further aware that the Neath Borough Council and I have received complaints from those who live in the Melyn areas of Neath concerning hardship which they suffer from dust, noise and damage to properties? Will he do what he can to ensure that the Government legislate with a sense of urgency on the basis of this report? Will he also say whether any compensation element in this legislation will cover those people who are suffering at the present time?

Mr. Thomas

I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for drawing the matter to my attention. The Government's own review of compensation is nearing completion, and as soon as the two reviews have been considered the Government will announce their proposals in a White Paper. Thereafter legislation will be necessary and the Government have every intention that this will follow as soon as possible.