HC Deb 01 December 1982 vol 33 c258
10. Mr. Eggar

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will list his powers in relation to traffic management schemes proposed by the Greater London Council which affect trunk routes.

Mr. Eyre

My powers in relation to traffic management schemes affecting trunk roads in Greater London are derived from section 6(2) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1967, which enables my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State or, with his consent, the Greater London Council, to make traffic regulation orders relating to trunk roads.

Mr. Eggar

Is my hon. Friend aware that the GLC is trying to impose on Enfield town a contra-flow bus scheme at a cost of £90,000? Is he further aware that this proposal is opposed by the council and by all organisations in Enfield? Will he examine the powers of the GLC in this regard and consider whether he can overrule them?

Mr. Eyre

Church Street is not a trunk road and it does not come within the provisions that I specified. My right hon. Friend was not consulted when the GLC introduced the proposal for the scheme. I understand that the proposal is on an experimental basis, limited in time. If the GLC wishes to proceed with a permanent order, it must be advertised locally and nationally and the public must be given a right to object.

Mr. Dykes

Should the Transport Act 1967 be reinforced to limit juggernaut movements in central London?

Mr. Eyre

I should need to consider carefully an answer to that question. If I may, I shall write to my hon. Friend.