asked the Secretary for State for Transport what progress is being made with plans for the Ashbourne bypass; and whether he will make a statement.

Preliminary investigations by consulting engineers are now well in hand. Traffic surveys are to be carried out this month and in May. These will establish the traffic patterns in and around Ashbourne, and help us plan and test possible routes for a new trunk road. We hope to be able to consult the public on alternatives next year.

asked the Secretary of State for Transport how many representations he has received about the plans for the Ashbourne bypass in the last six months; and if he will indicate from whom they have come.

In the last six months written representations have not been received.