HC Deb 28 March 1973 vol 853 cc1282-3
6. Mr. Wall

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement on the progress of building the Humber Bridge and associated road systems.

Mr. Peyton

Contracts for the bridge structure have now been awarded by the Humber Bridge Board. Preparation of the associated road improvements is on schedule.

Mr. Wall

I am grateful to hear that the contract has gone to a British consortium. Will my right hon. Friend say whether he expects the bridge to be completed by 1975, when the motorway is due to be completed? Will he further say whether he is satisfied with proposals for the northern outlet, either by making the A1034 a trunk road or by the county council's alternative proposals?

Mr. Peyton

I am prepared to write to my hon. Friend about the last point. The question of the date of completion of the bridge is really a matter for the board, but the end of 1976 or early 1977 is the likely date.

Mr. James Hamilton

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is recognition in the British construction industry that the Government have played a welcome part in awarding the contract to a British company, ensuring 500 jobs in the construction process in this country, and that, therefore, the union concerned is very grateful indeed?

Mr. Peyton

And I am very grateful for the hon. Member for his gracious words.