§ 48. Mr. O'BrienTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he last met representatives of local authorities to discuss transport in rural areas; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanMinisters frequently meet representatives of local authorities to discuss a wide range of issues. The provision of rural transport is a matter for the operators and the local authorities concerned. In addition, the Department of Transport provides £1 million a year for the rural transport development fund to support innovative public transport schemes in rural areas.