§ 11. Mr. Cartwrightasked the Secretary of State for Transport when he next plans to meet the chairman of London Regional Transport to discuss his proposals for improving the quality of bus services in London.
§ Mr. RidleyI meet the chairman of London Regional Transport at frequent intervals and our discussions cover a wide range of topics. LRT is taking positive steps to improve the quality of the bus services it provides, in accordance with the objectives it has been sent.
§ Mr. CartwrightDoes the Secretary of State accept the LRT view that the main threat to the quality of bus services in London comes from a combination of almost perpetual road works and the blocking of main roads by parked vehicles? If so, what encouragement can he give LRT that there will be any improvement of those problems in the foreseeable future?
§ Mr. RidleyI know that in the hon. Gentleman's constituency there has been a deterioration of the service along the Rochester way relief road. I understand from LRT that the road works, which are being carried out by the GLC, are causing the problem. If the hon. Gentleman likes to raise the matter with the GLC, he may get an explanation of why that service in not functioning well.
§ Mr. JesselIs my right hon. Friend aware that this year I have had fewer complaints about buses than ever before?
§ Mr. CorbettThere are fewer buses, that is why.
§ Mr. RidleyI hope that my hon. Friend will find that he has fewer complaints still next year.