§ 48. Mr. David Atkinsonasked the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects a start to the southern extension of the M3 motorway.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeI am pleased to say that steps are being taken by the objectors to withdraw their High Court challenge to the orders for the section from Popham to Bar End. This means that work on this scheme should be able to start this year for completion in 1985.
The consultants appointed to undertake a fresh study of the trunk route between Bar End, Compton and Bassett have been asked to report, with firm recommendations, by the end of this year. The timing of the scheme after that will largely depend on how quickly the new statutory procedures that will be needed can be completed.