Topical question asked in the House of Commons, by Ann Winterton (Conservative). It was answered on Thursday, 18 March 2010 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Topical Questions

Question: As a keen motorist and member of the Institute of Advanced Motorists, I consider that to travel by car is a first-class experience—until one comes across an army of cones, marching for many motorway miles and restricting lanes, without contractors undertaking any work. What sanction does the Department have to ensure that heavily taxed motorists are given more consideration?

Answer: I hope that the hon. Lady is not suggesting that we bring back John Major's cones hotline. I seem to recall reading recently that last time a journalist rang that number he was told that there was no one there any more. The hon. Lady should appreciate that there are a number of reasons why the perception might be that there are cones without works going on: for example, when materials are hardening—[Interruption.] I would have thought that the hon. Lady was capable of understanding some basic civil engineering principles. Materials such as concrete take some time to dry, and it is not a very good idea to drive cars on it while that is happening.

Secondary information