Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by John Pugh (Liberal Democrat). It was answered on Tuesday, 6 December 2005 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Regional Transport Forums

Question: I thank the Minister for her answer. In just a few weeks, the regional transport boards, controlled by the Government offices, will submit what are virtually 10-year regional transport plans, prioritise millions of pounds of expenditure, disappoint many, but affect every community, business and council, with minimal consultation and limited democratic debate and feedback. Is such haste wise or necessary, and will not it produce divisive or poor outcomes?

Answer: I am sorry to hear from the hon. Gentleman that he is not happy with the consultation. We took the decision not to impose a particular model of consultation on the regions, but as this is likely to be the way of the future it is important that regions make the best use of their consultation options, whether with businesses or communities. When we come to consider the plans again next spring, we will examine the matter carefully. We will want to see that they have demonstrated robust consultation processes.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 440 c721
Session: 2005-06
Oral question type: 1st Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Advisory bodies Planning Public participation Transport Regional transport forums Regional transport boards
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk