School Transport Bill — 28 Oct 2004 at 17:15

I beg to move, That the Bill be now read a Second time.

I have the honour to present an important and interesting Bill. It is important because it attacks a very significant social and economic problem that needs to be challenged: the school run, with all its negative effects on environment and health, such as congestion in many of our towns and cities. It is important because it gives local authorities freedom to do what they do best-to innovate, and to address and solve problems in their local communities. It is important because it finds ways in which to loosen the legislative straitjacket that has prevented any reforms in this area for many decades. It is interesting because it has the strong support of local government represented by all political parties, who know that the problems in their areas, for which they are responsible, must be solved.

Question put, That the Bill be now read a Second time:-

The House divided: Ayes 248, Noes 130.

Debate in Parliament | Historical Hansard | Source |