§ Mr. Cartwrightasked the Secretary of State for Transport when he now expects to publish the necessary highways and compulsory purchase orders in connection with the east London river crossing; and what is the most recent estimate of the duration of any public inquiry and the start date for the works.
§ Mrs. ChalkerThe date for publishing draft orders has not yet been fixed, but it is likely to be in the early part of 1984. Because of the size and complexity of the scheme, the public inquiry is expected to last for several months.
It is not possible at this stage to say precisely when works will start, but it is unlikely to be before 1987.
364Wabout the need for repairs to the Goole and Gilderdyke bridge; and whether he has received any proposals for its closure from British Rail.
§ Mr. David MitchellNo. The responsibility for decisions on repairs to the Goole swing bridge is a matter for the British Railways Board. I understand that the board intends to propose the withdrawal of passenger services between Goole and Gilderdyke, but it has not yet begun the statutory procedures.