§ Ms. Ruddockasked the Secretary of State for Transport what advice he has issued to the Board of London Regional Transport concerning tender specifications for London bus routes; what account such advice took of the needs of disabled people; and if he will place copies of the advice in the Library.
§ Mr. David MitchellWe have issued no advice concerning tender specifications for bus routes. LRT does, however, have a general statutory duty in securing the provision of passenger services to have due regard to the transport needs of disabled people.
§ Ms. Ruddockasked the Secretary of State for Transport what instructions he has issued to the board of London Regional Transport, concerning the timespan within which London buses are to put routes out to tender; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David MitchellLondon Regional Transport has a general statutory duty to invite tenders to carry on those of its activities it may declare to be appropriate. The current objectives which the Government have set the Chairman include a requirement to involve the private sector in the provision of services where that is more efficient. Beyond that, the timing and nature of tendering of bus routes are matters for LRT.