§ Mr. WardTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether contracts have yet been let for the southern section of the M3 extension.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyNecessary works in advance of the main contract for the Compton to Bassett section of the M3 are under way. We hope to invite tenders for the main contract shortly to enable work to start this summer.
§ Mr. WardTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he has now received the independent inspector's report on the latest public inquiry about the final link between the M27 and M3 motorways; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyYes. The inspector's report of the reopened inquiry into the Bar End to Compton section of the M3 extension was received at the end of November. It will be considered together with that of the 1985 inquiry inspector. The reports cover the many complex issues covered at the inquiries. My right hon. Friends will announce their joint decisions as quickly as they can.