§ Ms WalleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to franchise urban motorways; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. KeyWe have at present no such plans. My right hon. Friend announced on 2 December,Official Report, column 650, that we would invite the private sector to bid for contracts under which—would design, build, finance and operate roads for which—would receive payment from Government in relation to the use of those roads; and that we would develop options for the future for more extensive use of private finance. It is too soon to say what the longer-term options might include.