Mr. William O'BrienTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what was the original estimated cost of the east of Knottingley Al to Hook Moor highway development; what is now the estimate; and if he will make a statement. [5293]
§ Mr. WattsThe estimated cost of the east of Knottingley objector's alternative route is £176.6 million. The estimate was prepared immediately prior to the public inquiry following agreement by the promoter of the east of Knottingley route to the detailed plans.
Mr. O'BrienTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to his answer to the hon. Member for Normanton of 30 November 1995,Official Report, column 351, what transcript system was used by the inspector doing the public inquiry into the Al Ferrybridge to Hook Moor motorway proposals. [5289]
§ Mr. WattsThe conduct of inquiries concerned with Highways Act Orders is governed by the Highways (Inquiries Procedure) Rules 1994, SI 3263, which came into force on 10 January 1995. It is for the inspector to decide whether there should be any recording of statements. A transcript service is normally provided by the Department of Transport for trunk road inquiries which are expected to last more than 16 sitting days.