§ Mr. Wigginasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the estimated date of completion for the M5 bridge across the River Avon; how many months it is behind schedule; when work on the decking will commence; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Graham PageThe Technical Committee which my right hon. Friend set up last December to examine the basis of design and method of erection of large steel box girder bridges has made an interim report. Until the Avon Bridge, which is of this type, has been re-appraised in the light of the Committee's recommendations I am unable to state what delay there will be on the original contract completion date of September, 1972, or when erection of the decking will commence. I will write to the hon. Member when further information is available.