§ Mr. Rookerasked the Secretary of State for Transport what progress he has made in his discussions with the original contractors concerning the defects in the midland links viaducts; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. ChalkerI am pleased to be able to announce that, as a result of negotiations over the last nine months, the seven contractors responsible for the construction of the midland links viaducts completed between 1967 and 1972 have agreed settlements, whereby, without admission of legal liability, they pay sums totalling £1.47 million in respect of certain repairs found necessary in the last few years.
The contractors' willingness to reach these agreements reflects a responsible attitude on their part which will help to sustain their reputations at home and overseas.
The Government are determined to ensure that the midland links continue to play the unique and crucially important role in the economic and social life of the community for which they were designed.