§ Mr. Michael Spicerasked the Secretary of State for Transport which trunk road schemes have been advanced in 1982–83 as a result of the favourable weather and rapid progress of work by contractors.
§ Mr. David HowellThe following schemes have been completed earlier than expected.
Early completions 1982–83 Mileage Completion: months ahead of schedule A339 Kingsclere BP 1.2 4 A47 Uppingham BP 1.5 9 A66 Troutbeck Div. 1.7 10 A6 Elstow BP 1.2 4 A17 Heckington BP 2.8 7 A428 Dorchester BP 2.2 2 A47 Blofield BP 1.0 4 A17 W. of Kings Lynn—CC 6.8 5 M54 Donnington Sec. 4.3 7 M25 Yeoveney-Airport Spur 2.0 5 A66 Bowes Bypass 4.0 4 28.7 These schemes enable through traffic to bypass 11 more communities earlier than anticipated.
A further 10 schemes due for completion in 1983–84, totalling over 25 miles, are also running ahead of schedule.
This additional output on the trunk road programme will not increase total public expenditure. As I announced in answer to a question from the hon. Member for Stoke-on-Trent, North, (Mr. Forrester) on 27 January—[Vol. 35, c. 496.]—the Supplementary Estimate I am seeking to cover this and increased output elsewhere in the programme, will be charged to the Contingency Reserve.