Mr. Brown:

I was endeavouring to explain why we had not been able to keep to the firm date which we gave. From time to time we are pressed by hon. Members to give a reasonable indication of the time at which a scheme will start, and clearly we want to give this type of information if we can possibly do so. But when extraneous circumstances arise over which we have no control, it is hardly reasonable that when people are pressing for a date we should be "clobbered" for giving a date. That is what has happened in this case. Therefore, I am sure the hon. Member would not expect me to undertake any commitment to begin work on the scheme by a specific date. In view of what has happened, he will appreciate my point.

We are fully aware of the urgency of the matter and we will do all we can, subject to the proper observance of the statutory procedures, to make the quickest possible progress on the scheme. It may be helpful to point out that the completion of the link between the M5 and M6 motorways, scheduled for next summer, will provide a welcome measure of relief to the A449, which is at present used as one of the connecting routes between these motorways.

On the subject of accidents, although every accident is to be deplored, I am pleased to note that the records on this stretch of road is not as serious as might have been expected. Since 1st June, 1966, I am delighted to say that there has been no fatal injuries; but unfortunately there have been two serious injuries and 14 slight ones. I would agree with the hon. Member that these 16 injuries are 16 injuries too many. That is why we want to press on with the matter as early as possible, and the factors which I have mentioned do not in any sense detract from the urgency with which we regard this scheme, and I repeat that we shall press ahead with all possible speed.