HC Deb 10 February 1982 vol 17 c397W
24. Mr. Cook

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on his Department's assessment of the economic benefits of new road building.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

New road building shows a good return. For example, even after discounting at 7 per cent. the economic benefits of trunk roads to be completed by 1984–85 are likely to exceed costs by at least 40 per cent. in real terms.