§ 2.41 p.m.
§ LORD FERRIERMy Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government whether, in view of the new traffic pattern created in Edinburgh and Southern Scotland by the Forth Road Bridge, they propose to initiate the early construction of the orbital highway around Edinburgh for which the need was foreseen and advance plans were laid many years ago.]
§ THE JOINT PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE FOR SCOTLAND (LORD HUGHES)My Lords, a survey of traffic entering and leaving Edinburgh was carried out in 1960 but did not produce evidence justifying any high degree of priority for an orbital highway around Edinburgh. It is too early yet to say whether the Forth Bridge has caused any substantial change in the volume of traffic which does not need to enter Edinburgh and could pass the city on a 217 by-pass. A survey which will reveal changes in the pattern of traffic, following the opening of the Bridge, is planned for next summer; and its results will be studied carefully by my right honourable friend and Edinburgh Corporation who are, of course, responsible for traffic plans within the city.
§ LORD FERRIERMy Lords, I thank the noble Lord for his Answer.