Discussion on Paper 6

Mr A. Holford-Walker, Council for the Protection of Rural England

The Paper is such a thorough survey of the present position and possibilities that it is difficult to say anything new. Planners should consider not only those who live in the countryside, but also those who may not have public or private transport, and who wish to get out into the countryside. Such people have no means of getting out unless they borrow or hire or are given lifts in cars. Also objectives should be established. To what extent is personal mobility a right?

Unfortunately public transport is a vote catcher. Most people have cars or live in towns where there is an adequate service, but what of those who cannot afford cars, disabled people who have difficulties using public transport and the 46% of households who never will own their own cars ?