To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if a variable-trip matrix model has been used to assess his Department's preferred route for the Gateshead western bypass. [36233]

No, the cross-Tyne study traffic model, updated by additional data from interview surveys carried out at the Metro centre and Town Valley trading estate in 1991, was used.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement about progress on the environmental assessment for the Gateshead western bypass proposal in accordance with European Council directive 855/337. [36231]

The work, which commenced when the scheme was placed in the trunk road programme, will continue to be progressed concurrently with the detailed design of the scheme and the result will be published at the same time as the publication of the orders for the scheme under the Highways Act 1980 in accordance with the statutory requirements.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if his Department's proposals in respect of the Gateshead western bypass have been revised to take into account the Standing Advisory Committee on Trunk Road Assessment report and associated Government guidance. [36232]

Work is currently in progress to consider the implications for the scheme of the most recent SACTRA report.