§ Mr. Douglas-Mannasked the Minister of Transport what steps he proposes, in view of the decision not to proceed with any new major highway north of Hooley M23 terminal, to secure the payment of compensation to those who have suffered 296W from the blight caused by the now abandoned proposals.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeThe decision should revive confidence in the market for houses in the area. There is no legal basis for payment of compensation in retrospect for any adverse effect during the past period of uncertainty.
§ Mr. Douglas-Mannasked the Minister of Transport whether he will make a statement concerning the disposal of land and dwellings acquired by his Department for the purpose of the M23 extension north of Hooley.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeI am determined that property no longer needed for road schemes should be disposed of without delay. Property acquired for the M23 extension will be sold as quickly as possible, bearing in mind that the statutory orders which authorised its construction have still to be revoked.