§ Mr. Moateasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will list his powers in relation to the imposition of restrictions on the movement of goods vehicles in London, including a ban on lorries during certain hours or at all times; and what are the statutory processes involved.
§ Mr. Ridley[pursuant to his reply, 22 February 1984, c. 521.]: The GLC has a duty under section 84(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1967 to secure the expeditious, convenient and safe movement of vehicular traffic in London. Section 84A of that Act gives the Secretary of State powers to issue a direction:
- i requiring the GLC to make an order for a specified purpose; or
421 - ii prohibiting the GLC from making or bringing into operation an order where he is satisfied that it is not satisfactorily discharging its duty.
If the GLC fails to comply with such a direction, the Secretary of State may exercise any power conferred on the GLC and recover the costs.
The Secretary of State may also make an order varying or revoking any order the GLC might make if, having regard to any matters appearing to him to be relevant, there are special circumstances which make it expedient to do so.
Section 84(2A) of the Act places a duty on the Secretary of State to give a direction or make an order where the Greater London council has failed to control heavy commercial vehicles as is appropriate for preserving or improving the amenities of Greater London.
Before giving a direction to the GLC the Secretary of State is required to consult it. Before making an order he is required to give the GLC notice and may, if he thinks fit, hold a public inquiry.