HC Deb 10 July 1989 vol 156 cc675-6
11. Mr. Carrington

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many trunk roads have been financed wholly or largely by the private sector since 1986; and how many cost-sharing agreements for trunk road schemes are under consideration.

Mr. Channon

In addition to the Dartford bridge, there have been 58 schemes in the past three years. A further 50 agreements are being considered.

Mr. Carrington

I thank my right hon. Friend for that answer. Does he agree that that is an excellent way of increasing investment in the road infrastructure and obtaining value for money at the same time? Does he also agree that the introduction of tolls on roads would have the further benefit of ensuring that roads do not get clogged up with non-essential traffic and that commercial transport will then be able to get through properly?

Mr. Channon

I am grateful to my hon. Friend and am sure that as the new developments come forward—with some possibly being financed by tolls—they will provide extra opportunities for roads and will be widely welcomed throughout the country.

Mr. Corbyn

Is the Secretary of State aware that the many road proposals in the east London assessment study are all bitterly opposed by the local communities? Will he confirm whether there have been discussions with any private road entrepreneurs to build private roads in the area covered by the east London assessment study?

Mr. Channon

I know of no such proposals.