HC Deb 20 July 1977 vol 935 cc1594-5
21. Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on plans for lorry routes through the Peak District National Park in the light of the recent White Paper on transport policy.

Mr. Horam

The White Paper on transport policy rules out the idea of a national system of lorry routes as impractical for some time to come. Local authorities may, of course, continue to use their existing powers to regulate lorry traffic in their areas as they think fit.

Mr. Hooley

Is my hon. Friend aware that if this means that there are to be no lorry routes through the Peak District National Park I shall be extremely satisfied? Will he use his influence to ensure that excessive so-called improvements in roads in that area will not be carried out in such a way as to damage the valuable amenities that it provides?

Mr. Horam

I understand my hon. Friend's concern, which I share, for the Peak District National Park, and, indeed, for any national park. I do not know, at the moment, of any traffic orders affecting the roads running through the Peak District National Park.