§ Mr. John Home Robertsonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will confirm that the starting dates for the Tranent and Musselburgh bypasses in 1982 and 1983, respectively, will not be delayed as a result of planning difficulties which have arisen concerning the proposed Howe Mire opencast site.
§ Mr. RifkindI hope that a start of these schemes in 1982 and 1983 can be maintained, but the resolution of any planning difficulties is a matter in the first instance for the objectors and the National Coal Board.