The green paper contains the response to the Government's call in 1995 for a national debate on options for transport policy. Conclusions are drawn where possible, and the Government's view is given on the way forward. The central theme of the debate was how to address current and forecast levels of road traffic. The paper concentrates on domestic, surface transport in England; separate statements are to be published on Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The different requirements for a competitive economy, a healthy environment and freedom of choice need to be reconciled. The background to transport policy is reviewed and an analysis is given of the need to review policies, key responsibilities, how decisions are made and what measures are being pursued. The future is seen to be based on reduced dependence on the car, increased efficiency of markets, better transport planning and stronger links between prices and costs.
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