HC Deb 15 May 1996 vol 277 cc443-4W
Mr. Morgan

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what assessment he has made of the effect on the completion date of the approach roads contract to the second Severn crossing in respect of(a) opening any lanes on the approach roads and (b) opening the whole carriageway on the approach roads of (i) defects in the steel work and (ii) substandard construction materials; and if he will make a statement; [29409]

(2) what consultations he has had with the chief executive of the Highways Agency concerning the investigations by the Avon and Somerset police into the allegations of fraudulent supply of construction materials for the M4 and M5 approach roads to the second Severn crossing. [29386]

Mr. Watts

I have asked the chief executive of the Highways Agency to write to the hon. Member.

Letter from Lawrie Haynes to Mr. Rhodri Morgan, dated 15 May 1996:

The Secretary of State for Transport has asked me to reply to your recent questions about substandard materials and defects in steel work on the approach roads to the Second Severn Crossing.

As I said in my letter dated 2 May, defects found during inspections and problems with steel fabrication will have no impact on the opening dates for the M4 approach road.

Traffic Management will ensure that any remedial work required after the official opening will be carried out causing minimum disruption to the public.

The allegations of fraud are a matter for the Police.