§ 24. Mr. Peter Bottomleyasked the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has for the creation of a comprehensive heavy lorry network.
§ Mr. HoramThe White Paper on transport policy explains why the Government have concluded that a national system of roads specifically designated as lorry routes will not be a practical proposition for some time to come but suggests that local authorities should make use of their traffic regulation powers to control heavy lorry traffic.
§ Mr. BottomleyDoes the Minister accept that as this country goes back to growth, and with our increasing trade with Europe, stretches of major road such as the A2, through my constituency, and the three-mile link between two motorway-standard roads must receive Government support? Will he also give an assurance that the Rochester relief road will be built as soon as possible?
§ Mr. HoramThat is a slightly different question. Road building has been dealt with elsewhere. Nevertheless, I am aware of the particular proposals of the hon. Gentleman, and I think that it is something for the GLC specifically. But we shall naturally consider it.
§ Sir Anthony RoyleIs the Minister aware of the deep concern in outer London at the increase in heavy traffic now taking place? Will he press the GLC to take action at a very early date to reduce the number of heavy lorries manœuvring their way through the narrow streets of South London?
§ Mr. HoramThe GLC, particularly under the vigorous Labour administration that went out recently, introduced some extremely stiff bans on lorries over a widespread part of London. These have been widely welcomed, and I certainly support them.