§ Sir Robert McCrindleTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if it remains his intention that the proposed M12 should be a toll motorway.
§ Mr. ChopeYes. My right hon. and learned Friend intends to hold a competition once he has identified a preferred route. Privately financed proposals will be invited and, if such a proposal proves to be the best option, the successful tenderer will be awarded a concession under the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991.
§ Sir Robert McCrindleTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he has re-examined the justification for the proposed M12 between Chelmsford and the M25 in the light of recent traffic forecasts; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ChopeThe justification for each motorway and trunk road scheme is kept under review throughout its development in the light of economic, environmental, traffic and other factors. That will happen in this case. As part of that process, roadside traffic interviews were held in June. They will also assist decisions about the capacity of the proposed motorway.