asked Her Majesty's Government:

What guidance they are issuing concerning the future roles of the Traffic Commissioners. [HL4704]

Clause 3 of the Local Transport Bill, currently before Parliament, would empower the Secretary of State for Transport to appoint a statutory Senior Traffic Commissioner with, among other things, powers to issue general directions and guidance to the other traffic commissioners.

It would also allow the Secretary of State to issue statutory guidance to the Senior Traffic Commissioner, once appointed. However, the formal appointment and issuing of guidance by the Secretary of State can only take place after the Bill receives Royal Assent and the relevant provisions are brought into force. The draft guidance will also be subject to a public consultation exercise.