HC Deb 07 November 1979 vol 973 cc197-8W
31. Mr. Prescott

asked the Minister of Transport what representations he has received from motoring organisations and other interested parties on his proposal to relax the existing detailed restrictions placed upon the operators of motorway service areas.

Mr. Fowler

Reaction to the Government's proposals has been very encouraging. I shall be opening negotiations on the sale of the Government's interest with the operators and other interested parties very shortly.

50. Mr. Bob Dunn

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will make a further statement on his recently announced policy on motorway service areas.

51. Mr. Butcher

asked the Minister of Transport if he will make a further statement on his announcement on 22 October about future arrangements for motorway service areas.

Mr. Fowler

As I announced on 22 October, I have decided to offer for sale on new long leases the major part of the Government's interest in motorway service areas in England.—[Vol. 972, c. 80]. I believe that this will give motorway service area operators the incentive to offer a better and more varied service to their customers. I shall be opening negotiations with the operators and other interested parties very shortly.