§ 12. Mr. Higginsasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will carry out a survey of bus lanes to establish their effect on traffic flows in urban areas.
§ Mr. EyreThe effects of bus lanes on traffic flows have been widely studied and my Department has issued advice on design.
§ Mr. HigginsIs my hon. Friend aware that many people believe that bus lanes slow down the flow of traffic not only for cars and other vehicles but for buses? As there will be new data because bus lanes have been withdrawn during the present rail crisis, will my hon. Friend make sure that statistics on the traffic flow of buses and other vehicles during this period are compared with those for periods when the bus lanes are in operation?
§ Mr. EyreI know that my right hon. Friend will understand that some traffic experts maintain that properly administered bus lanes can help to ease traffic congestion. I assure him with pleasure that his points will be carefully considered. The matter is being monitored.
§ Mr. EggarWill my hon. Friend take immediate action to remove the GLC's power to impose bus lanes in outer London boroughs against the wishes of residents associations and local councils?
§ Mr. EyreI assure my hon. Friend that some of the technical objections to some of the GLC's actions are well understood. The Secretary of State does not have the power to take the type of action for which my hon. Friend asks.
§ Mr. Allan RobertsDoes the Minister agree that bus lanes would be far more successful if more people used public transport and, in London, the Underground? Does he agree also that bus lanes are part of a package that 1028 includes cheaper public transport fares? Does he agree, further that the GLC and other councils have the right to reduce fares as well as to introduce bus lanes?
§ Mr. EyreThe main problem lies in the balance with which the plans are prepared and implemented. We are taking careful account of traffic engineering requirements. It is said that they can help, but ill-prepared plans do only harm.