MANDATORY CONSULTATION BY TRAFFIC COMMISSIONERS

That this House notes with concern that, whereas local planning authorities are required to consult those who may be directly affected by a planning application, and in particular those in neighbouring properties, no such requirements are placed on the Traffic Commissioners in respect of goods vehicle operator licence applications which may equally affect those in neighbouring properties; and therefore calls upon the Secretary of State for Transport to introduce proposals to change the Commissioner's responsibilities in this regard and to require mandatory consultation of those affected, in line with that which applies in planning legislation.