Mr. Alan Williamsasked the Minister of Transport why the minimum charge for the removal of a vehicle which breaks down on the Severn Bridge is set under her regulations at £5; and how this figure was arrived at.
§ Mr. John MorrisThe charge is intended to cover the estimated total annual cost of the breakdown service. It was arrived at by dividing this estimated annual cost by the number of breakdowns estimated to occur in a full year's use of the bridge. It is too early to say to what extent the charge will cover the costs.
Mr. Alan Williamsasked the Minister of Transport what is her most recent estimate of the annual cost of the service for the removal of vehicles which break down on that section of the Severn Bridge to which the £5 removal charge applies; and if she will give a detailed analysis of these annual costs.
§ Mr. John MorrisAbout £9,400. The estimate, which has been examined by the Department's accountants and is considered reasonable, provides for a twenty-four hours service involving the exclusive use of one special vehicle, and the holding in reserve of another, for the rapid clearance of breakdowns from the bridge. Details of the costs are confidential between the agents and the Department. The position will be reviewed when we have had sufficient experience of the operations.