§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how he proposes to protect the environment of North Wales consequent upon the completion of the A55 Expressway; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerI am confident that planning authorities will in discharging their responsibilities continue to take full account of the need for balance between conservation and new development.
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§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he has received a copy of the Institute of Welsh Affairs report entitled "Prospects for North Wales: the New A55 Expressway;" and if he will make a statement on his response to its recommendations.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerThe chairman of the institute forwarded a copy of the report to me on 11 October. I attach a copy of my response which I am also placing in the Library.
§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will establish a task force to respond to the effects of the A55 Expressway; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerI expect to make an announcement before the end of the year in response to the views which my hon. Friend the Minister of State has sought on how the opportunities presented by the A55 improvements can best be used to the advantage of north Wales.
§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is his estimate of the annual increase in inward migration in Wales consequent upon the completion of the A55 Expressway; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerThe mid-year estimates of population for Gwynedd and Clwyd indicate an increasing net inward migration since 1981 into both counties. I would expect this trend to continue as the A55 improvements bring forward further opportunities for industrial and economic development.