95. Miss Leeasked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that since 1961 there have been seven fatal accidents and 537 other accidents on the 13½ miles of Watling Street which run through the Cannock constituency, and that, since the opening of the M.6 motorway in August, 1962, the volume of traffic has increased by 110 per cent.; and if he will ensure that major road improvements are carried out without further delay.
§ Mr. MarplesI have already begun some very major roadworks—the building of the Midland Link motorway—which will remedy the situation. The first length is under construction, the second will start in a month or two, and successive lengths will begin as soon as possible. 249W Lengths of A.5 are nevertheless scheduled for considerable improvement to accommodate the traffic in the meantime. The start on a length in the hon. Member's constituency has been delayed only by land acquisition difficulties.
I would not be justified in doing more than this to a road which will be substantially relieved by a motorway.