§ Mr. Tom ClarkeTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he expects work to commence on the extension to the M8 between Baillieston and Newhouse; what is the projected expenditure; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonThe proposed extension of the M8 between Baillieston and Newhouse is currently planned to be carried out in two phases. I expect the necessary preparatory work for both phases, the first between Baillieston and Shawhead and the second between Shawhead and Newhouse, to be completed in time to allow construction starts in late summer 1991 and early summer 1994 respectively. The actual timing of starts664W will depend upon priorities within, and the finance available for, the trunk road programme at those dates. The current estimate of cost for the whole works between Baillieston and Newhouse is £29 million.