M1 (Watford-Hemel Hempstead)

16.

Mr. Raphael Tuck
asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make the stretch of the M1 between Watford and Hemel Hempstead, on  which many deaths have occurred, into a six-lane carriageway.

Mr. Michael Heseltine
My right hon. Friend hopes to make an announcement shortly about plans to improve this stretch of the M1.

Mr. Tuck
Is the Minister aware that recent research by the Hertfordshire County Council has revealed that traffic on this stretch, known as the killer stretch, is 160 per cent. more than it ought to be? Why will the Minister not take action? Accidents will not wait. They are mounting and they will not wait while he jumps about like a cat on hot bricks.

Mr. Heseltine
We are certainly aware of this, and we share the hon. Gentleman's concern about accidents. We hope to make a decision shortly.