§ Mr. Grovesasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the portion of the scheme for widening High Street, Stratford, from Bow Bridge to Marshgate Lane is still uncompleted; that the contract for such completion has been allocated; that the houses necessary for the accommodation of de-housed people are erected and available for use; and whether, as this portion of the scheme is almost the final section and the non-fulfilment would constitute a great public danger, he will take steps to collaborate with the local highway authority to ensure early completion of the scheme?
§ Captain WallaceI am aware of the circumstances referred to by the hon. Member, but I would point out that the road works have not been started and there has been no interference with the footpaths and carriageway. The decision to postpone the works was taken in accordance with the general policy that in present circumstances road works should not be put in hand unless they can be shown to be essential in the national interest. As at present advised, I do not think that postponement in this case would constitute any public danger.