Severn Bridge

69.

 Mr. Evelyn Walkden
asked the Minister of War Transport whether he will consider providing space or width in the proposed Severn Road Bridge which will allow for the future construction or development of a double-track railway  line similar to the Dutch roadway across the northern end of the Zuyder Zee.

Mr. Barnes
The embankment across the Northern end of the Zuyder Zee is not comparable with a bridge across the Severn, but I will have consideration given again to the question whether it is practicable to construct the latter to accommodate a railway.

Mr. Walkden
Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the Dutch did face the future, although they did not need a railway immediately? They left provision for a railway, and that is what I am asking him to do, to face the future.

Mr. Barnes
We shall face all contingencies, and with success.