asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will expedite the announcement of the result of the comprehensive review of the Compensation Code; and when his proposals will be announced with regard to the granting of compensation based on the report of an independent valuer to owners of property which suffers serious worsenment as the result of building new roads, bridges and other works.

I shall announce our proposals on all aspects of compensation as soon as they are ready, but I cannot yet set a date.