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Contracting Out (Highway Functions) Order 2009

Will the Minister give an assurance that local authorities are in possession of all the powers relating to traffic signs, conduct of traffic and requiring utility companies to work for the length of time necessary to get the work carried out in the most expeditious way? Will he tell us whether any redress is available, either to bus companies or to residents, other than complaint to their local authority? It seems to me that a local authority strapped for cash is probably likely to let everybody suffer. We know the utilities are often irresponsible in declaring an emergency to gain access to the highway. I am sure that these emergencies are not always what they are declared to be.