HC Deb 13 January 2004 vol 416 cc672-3W
Mr. Hancock

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what research he has(a) commissioned and (b) evaluated on the availability of overnight parking facilities for commercial vehicles in each region of the UK K. [147330]

Mr. Jamieson

The Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 confers powers on local authorities to make provision for on and off street parking facilities, including facilities for commercial vehicles if these are considered necessary. We have not commissioned any research to evaluate the availability of overnight parking facilities for commercial vehicles. However, the Highways Agency is engaged in a pilot study in conjunction with the road haulage industry aimed at providing dedicated rest areas for lorry drivers away from the motorway network.