Severn Bridge — 'not ostriches'
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THE GOVERNMENT has defended its handling of the Se vern Bridge problems and has emphasised its willingness to build a second crossing, should it prove necessary.
Speaking at the South Wales division of the Freight Transport Association, Welsh Minister John Stradling Thomas denied that the Government was avoiding the sensitive issue of the bridge.
"I wish to refute accusations which have been made recently that we are burying our heads in the sand about the problems of the Severn Bridge.
"The Government fully appreciates the concern which your Association and other bodies have expressed about the need to strengthen the bridge, to im prove alternative routes and to commence work on a second crossing of the Severn Estuary."
Mr Thomas said that weekday restrictions on the use of the bridge had been introduced to satisfy both the Government and the public that action had been taken.
Mr Thomas reaffirmed the Government's commitment to build a second crossing whenever the need arose.
He said that the decision on the second crossing, its form and capacity, would be taken in due course by Transport Secretary Nicholas Ridley.