HC Deb 11 June 1973 vol 857 c976
11. Mr. Denzil Davies

asked the Secretary of State for Wales when he now expects that the M4 motorway will reach the borders of Carmarthenshire.

Mr. Peter Thomas

The Pontardulais bypass, which is the only part of the M4 currently planned for Carmarthenshire, should be completed by mid-1976. The South Wales stretch as a whole will be completed as rapidly as possible subject to the carrying through of statutory procedure.

Mr. Davies

Is the Secretary of State aware that his assurances will be welcomed but that to some extent in South-West Wales there is still a certain amount of confusion? Can he tell us whether by 1976 there will be a continuous motorway link between London and the Pontardulais bypass?

Mr. Thomas

I have said frequently that I want the motorway to be finished to Pontardulais by 1976. This depends on the outcome of public inquiries. Obviously I can make no promise in view of the many public objections which have been raised.

Mr. Gwynoro Jones

Is the Secretary of State detracting from previous assurances given in this House that the M4 will have reached Pontardulais by 1976?

Mr. Thomas

As the hon. Gentleman knows, I have repeatedly said that it is in my programme to finish this motorway by 1976. I must observe the procedures laid down by the statute and I have to hold public inquiries on the four sections west of Coryton. I have undertaken not to take my decisions on these separately. It has also been necessary to reopen one of these inquiries twice.