§ Mr. Geoffrey Finsbergasked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what account he took in drawing up his consultative document of 6th January of the views of the Automobile Association on the proposal to include in the revised Traffic Signs Regulations signs for with-flow bus lanes which will allow only 12 hour or 24 hour operation;
(2) what account he took in drawing up his consultative document of 6th January of the views of the Greater London Council on the proposal to include in the revised Traffic Signs Regulations signs for with-flow bus lanes which will allow only 12 hour or 24 hour operation;
(3) what account he took in drawing up his consultative document on 6th January of the views of the Metropolitan Police on the proposal to include in the revised Traffic Signs Regulations signs for with-flow bus lanes which will allow only 12 hour or 24 hour operation;
(4) what account he took in drawing up his consultative document of 6th January of the views of the Association of Municipal Authorities on the proposal to include in the revised Traffic Signs Regulations signs for with-flow bus lanes which will allow only 12 hour or 24 hour operation.
§ Mr. CarmichaelThe decision to prescribe in the forthcoming regulations signs for 24 and 12 hour working was taken after weighing the many conflicting views expressed by a wide range of bodies. My right hon. Friend is aware that some favour peak-period operation and local authorities wishing to operate with-flow bus lanes for periods of less than 12 hours are free to apply for authorisation of an appropriate sign. In the meantime, thought will be given to the desirability of prescribing a peak-hour sign in amending regulations in due course.