§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what research his Department has undertaken on the environmental consequences of the forecast increase in the number of cars on roads in Great Britain.
§ Mr. Chope[holding answer 28 February 1992]: My Department devotes a significant part of its research programme to many environmental issues relating to current and future road transport. For example, we are planning to develop a more accurate assessment of how vehicles perform in order to improve our forecasting of future emissions. We are also reviewing research on alternative vehicle engines and fuel. We are looking at ways of reducing urban congestion and pollution, including the scope for road pricing and the role of enhanced public transport in reducing emissions. Current forecasts of increased road traffic are relevant background to all this research. They are also taken into account in the environmental impact assessments carried out for each of our new road schemes.