asked the Minister of Transport to what extent in deciding that he would not offer grant aid for local services between Newport and Hereford, he sought the views of the Monmouthshire County Council and the North Monmouthshire Development Council about the repercussions on areas within the Welsh Development Area.

I did not directly consult the Monmouthshire County Council or the North Monmouthshire Development Council, but before reaching my decision I consulted the Welsh Council, the West Midland Economic Planning Council, and the Welsh and the West Midland Transport Users Consultative Committees.