§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment he has made of the implications of his Department's road building programme for the number of vehicle miles travelled; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AtkinsThe national road traffic forecasts published last year predict an increase in vehicle miles of between 83 and 142 per cent. between 1988 and 2025. These are demand forecasts, not targets, and the high and low forecasts are equally possible outcomes.
Increased traffic demand is primarily a function of economic growth rather than road building. Road improvements will not affect measurably the overall level of demand although there may be redistribution effects as traffic switches to better quality roads.