Bernard Allen
Question:268 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for the Environment when he intends to give statutory authority to the National Roads Authority which is now in existence for two-and-a-half years.
Written Answers. - National Roads Authority.
Michael Bell
Question:270 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for the Environment the plans his Department have to set up the long awaited and promised National Roads Authority; if he accepts that this has been promised on a number of occasions; the reason for the long delay; the functions which will be allocated to any such new authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 268 and 270 together.
I refer to replies to Questions No. 106 of 6 February 1991 and No. 59 of 28 November 1990. With regard to functions, I envisage that the NRA will have overall responsibility for the supervision of the development of national roads and a range of specific functions in relation to the planning, design and construction of such roads. Details must, however, await publication of the legislation.