§ Mr. Peter Bruinvelsasked the Secretary of State for Transport (1) whether his Department was consulted prior to the designation and eventual implementation of two new bus lanes along Millbank between Parliament square and Abingdon street; what advice was given to the Greater London council; and what assessment he has made of the effect on traffic flows to and from the Palace of Westminster;
(2) what representations were received, what advice was given, and what meetings were held with the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis prior to the introduction by the Greater London council of new bus lanes along Millbank between Parliament square and Abingdon street in order to ascertain how they might affect the Palace of Westminster and access to it.
§ Mr. RidleyThe GLC is solely and entirely responsible for this scheme. I understand that they have consulted the House authorities (who have expressed their concern at the scheme) and the police. They have not consulted me. The GLC has classified the scheme as experimental and my approval is not required. It will be open to Westminster city council from 1 April to decide if it should be abandoned forthwith. Meanwhile, the GLC is pressing ahead despite the concern that has been expressed and the fact that Westminster city council has recently announced a comprehensive review of traffic and environmental conditions in the area.