HC Deb 19 February 1997 vol 290 c566W
Mr. Nicholas Winterton

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment he made of the relative merits of(a) traffic reduction and (b) congestion reduction measures prior to giving backing to some aspects of the Road Traffic (Reduction) Bill; and if he will make a statement. [16014]

Mr. Watts

We believe that any such assessment are for local highway authorities to make, taking local circumstances into account. In practice, strategies for addressing the problems consequent on traffic growth need to encompass a variety of measures to influence demand, improve traffic flow and improve accessibility. The relative balance will depend on specific local circumstances.

Mr. Winterton

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what progress has been made to date by the Standing Advisory Committee on Trunk Road Assessment in its examination of the relationship between traffic growth, transport investment and economic growth; when he expects to receive the report of that committee; and if he will make it his policy not to proceed with, or facilitate the progress of, legislation in this area until such time as that report has been received and studied by his Department. [16015]

Mr. Watts

The Standing Advisory Committee on Trunk Road Assessment started its examination of the relationship between traffic growth, transport investment and economic growth at the end of last year and is expected to report its findings at the end of 1998.

Meanwhile, the Government will continue to promote or support such transport legislation as they consider appropriate, taking account of the available evidence.