asked the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received from, or discussions he has held with, the Association of Metropolitan Authorities about the future siting of major road-rail freight interchanges involving his Department; and whether he will make a statement.

I have seen the association's report on road and rail freight and I agree with it on the importance of coordination between local authorities, British Rail and industry on the development of road-rail interchanges. I understand that a working group set up by the association and British Rail is now studying this subject.