§ Ms. WalleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment his Department has made concerning transport policy implications in respect of the Countryside Commission's proposals to strengthen national parks for the 21st century; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth CarlisleThe Government made a full response to the Countryside Commission's national parks review in January this year.
My right hon. Friends the Secretaries of State for Transport and for Wales are responsible for policy on trunk roads in national parks. The Government's policy remains as it has been: no new trunk roads will be constructed or an existing road upgraded unless there is a compelling need which cannot be met by any reasonable alternative means. This policy has been most recently reflected in our announcement in September that the A628/A616 would not be upgraded to dual carriageway through the Peak district national park.
Other transport needs are a matter for local authorities, passenger transport executives and British Rail, in consultation with the national park authorities where appropriate.