§ Mr. Heddleasked the Secretary of State for Transport, further to his reply to the hon. Member for Lichfield and Tamworth on 15 December, what are the reasons why his inspector has required a further delay to March in respect of the report on the M42 (Tamworth section); and if he will ensure that the inspector produces his report by that date.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeThe further delay is again due to the inspector taking longer than he had hoped to complete his report. As the inspector is independent the preparation of the report is a matter for him, but I very much hope that he will submit it in March.