§ Mr. Awdryasked the Minister of Transport what action has been taken to implement recommendations 6, 12, 16, 70W 26 and 33, respectively, of the Economic Development Council report, Efficiency in Road Construction.
§ Mrs. CastleFollowing is the information
Recommendation 6: Both the economic and contractual aspects of this present considerable difficulties, and I must await the outcome of the investigation into serial contracting (being undertaken in accordance with Recommendation 26) before reaching a conclusion.Recommendation 12: As a first step contractors are now being given a quarterly forecast of starting dates for all trunk road schemes for two years ahead, in accordance with Recommendation 38. Forecasts for specific materials are more difficult, but I hope to provide forecasts of roadstone requirements soon.Recommendation 16: A detailed examination of the further extent to which savings could be achieved is almost complete.Recommendation 26: Consultants have been appointed to undertake an extensive study of the size and phasing of contracts, and in particular of the practicability of serial contracting in relation to roadworks; their report is expected by the Summer.Recommendation 33: I have already indicated my misgivings about this recommendation.