§ 31. Sir A. Meyerasked the Secretary of State for Transport whether he will review present methods of financing road construction by central Government and local authorities in England and Wales so as to ensure that financial and material resources are concentrated on the early completion of a dual-carriageway primary road system covering the whole of England and Wales.
§ Mr. William RodgersNot unless I am persuaded that there is a particular case for doing so.
§ Sir A. MeyerWill the right hon. Gentleman develop the excellent start he has made in his new post by having discussions on the system that has given this country probably the best minor roads and certainly some of the worst major roads in Europe?
§ Mr. RodgersI believe that part of my responsibility is to look at the motorway network and to discuss its adequacy and see how best it can be improved towards the end of this century, bearing in mind the other claims on resources of which we have heard today. I shall bear in mind what the hon. Gentleman has said.
§ Mr. JayHas my right hon. Friend noted that this is yet another suggestion from the Opposition for large public expenditure?
§ Mr. RodgersYes. We have had many suggestions this afternoon for large public expenditure, though I am afraid they have not all been from one side.
§ Mr. CormackIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that his frank answers today have been a refreshing change from many that we have received from Ministers? Will he accept our congratulations?
§ Mr. RodgersThe hon. Gentleman should not speak too soon.