§ 3. Mr. BurnsTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects to hold a public inquiry on the building of the M12 from the M25 to Chelmsford.
§ The Minister for Roads and Traffic (Mr. Robert Key)It is too early to say when we would hold a public inquiry. We would expect to consult the public about this route next spring.
§ Mr. BurnsMay I make a suggestion to my hon. Friend that would help to save public spending and to get rid of this unloved, unwanted and unasked for road? No doubt he will be aware that nobody in the area—Members of Parliament, local authorities, local residents—wants this road, which would be an environmental disaster. If he wants to become a much-loved local hero, he will kill this proposal here and now. If he does so, he will be feted in every village and town between the M25 and Chelmsford from here until eternity.
§ Mr. KeyWhat a wonderful invitation. I am grateful to my hon. Friend for his advice. I might even hold him to it one day.