§ Dr. Twinnasked the Secretary of State for Transport what action he has taken to secure the provision of transport data for London when the London residuary body withdraws its services in April.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyI welcome the discussions boroughs are having about a scheme to meet collective needs for Londonwide data, including traffic surveys and accident analysis information. Meanwhile, I must secure the Department's other requirements. London's transport data framework needs to be developed as professionally as possible for all who make use of it.
I have taken the steps announced on 12 December to place a contract with consultants to hold and develop the decennial Greater London transportation survey. We are also appointing consultants to maintain the programme of speed counts. We have today written to the London residuary body and the boroughs about these arrangements. We shall continue to consult closely with boroughs both about the development of the modelling and about appropriate longer-term arrangements. They and other users will be able to buy the services they need.