HC Deb 08 July 1999 vol 334 cc586-7W
Mr. Redwood

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many buses a day use the bus lane on the M4 between the M25 and the elevated section; and how many cars a day use the same section of motorway. [88491]

Mr. Prescott

The eastbound carriageway of the M4 motorway, between junction 3 and the elevated section where the motorway reduces from 3 lanes to 2, incorporates the bus lane. Based on the first three weeks monitoring of the operation of the road since the opening of the bus lane, 450 buses a day use the bus lane and some 49,200 cars use the same section of motorway. Additionally 2,900 taxis use the bus lane and 2,400 commercial vehicles use the motorway.

Mr. Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what representations he has received from 10 Downing Street in respect of the M4 bus lane. [88636]

Mr. Prescott

[holding answer 29 June 1999]: I received no representations from the Prime Minister, but my Department and 10 Downing Street have discussed the improvements in traffic flow for all vehicles which have occurred.