§ 8. Mr. Madelasked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects work to begin on the widening of the two-lane stretch of the Ml south of Bedfordshire; and when he expects the work to be completed.
§ Mr. CarmichaelThis must depend upon the satisfactory outcome of the statutory processes which are presently delayed by the current review of the standard to which the motorway is to be constructed.
§ Mr. MadelAs this section of the Ml is dangerously overloaded with traffic, will the Minister consider issuing regulations, pending completion of the work, that heavy lorries must not use the fast lane, because when they do so, bunching and crashes are often caused on this section, usually on a Friday night?
§ Mr. CarmichaelI use this road frequently myself and I know the problem. But on a two-lane road to suggest that heavy lorries should not use the outside lane is a very serious matter. I would have to take advice from the TRRL and other traffic sources. Hold-ups on six miles of motorway, particularly on Friday nights, could cause serious congestion, accidents and irritation.