§ 60. Mr. HigginsTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport why traffic turning south from the junction of the M25 and M23 was delayed for over 50 minutes at about noon on Saturday 11 June; who is responsible for co-ordinating the work of the police and other authorities to ensure that traffic is not unnecessarily delayed and motorists are informed when approaching motorway junctions that an alternative route should be used; why no attempt to reduce congestion was made on this occasion; and if he will review his Department's policy to ensure that traffic flows are maintained.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyThe delays on 11 June were caused by lane closures imposed while a deflectograph machine measured the structural condition of the road. The county council, as the Department's agent, is responsible for co-ordinating lane closures and traffic management. The work was undertaken at short notice to take advantage of the availability of the machine and favourable weather conditions. I regret the inconvenience to motorists. We will aim to avoid similar hold-ups.