§ Mr. Robert McCartneyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans he has to provide the powers granted to local authorities in the Road Traffic Reduction Bill to district councils in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement. [17700]
§ Mr. MossResponsibility for the subject in question has been delegated to the Roads Service and its chief executive, Mr. W. J. McCoubrey. I have asked him to arrange for a reply to be given.
Letter from G. P. Fraser to Mr. Robert McCartney, dated 28 February 1997:
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland has asked the Chief Executive to reply to your recently tabled PQ about the Road Traffic Reduction Bill. In his absence I will reply on his behalf.The Road Traffic Reduction Bill, as presently drafted, applies only to local authorities which are highway authorities. The Department of the Environment is the sole road authority in Northern Ireland and, if the Bill is enacted, similar requirements can be placed on the Department, including that of consultation or liaison with district councils, by means of a policy direction.I hope you find this information helpful.