§ 29. Mr. Eric ClarkeTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he plans to publish the infrastructure priority programme for Lothian. [33183]
§ Mr. McLeishI do not publish such a programme. I understand that my hon. Friend is interested in two particular projects, the A68 Dalkeith Northern Bypass and the Esk Valley Sewer.
The A68 Dalkeith Northern Bypass in common with other major roads projects is subject to the ongoing review of the Scottish trunk road programme. Until the review is concluded in mid Summer and its implications considered in the light of the available resources, it will not be possible to specify what priority the scheme will have in any future programme.
The construction of the upgraded Esk Valley Sewer is the responsibility of the East of Scotland Water Authority. The Authority is procuring the contract through the Private Finance Initiative and the current intention is that the contract will be let in October 1998. Construction on site will commence in early 1999. The aim is to have the work completed by the end of the year 2000 in order to comply with the requirements of the Urban Waste Water Treatment Regulations.