THE Government has refused to step into the growing row over Network Rail s plans to transport equipment for the Hitchin Rail Link along many of Letchworth GC roads. Chris Mole, under secretary of State for Transport responded to a series of questions con

THE Government has refused to step into the growing row over Network Rail's plans to transport equipment for the Hitchin Rail Link along many of Letchworth GC roads.

Chris Mole, under secretary of State for Transport responded to a series of questions concerning the transport issue from North East Herts MP Oliver Heald saying: "The movement of bulk materials for rail infrastructure works is the operational matter for Network Rail."

Today Mr Heald, who has been attempting to prevent the misery of hundreds of lorries a day passing close to homes, slammed the Government's attitude saying: "This is a very disappointing reply and an abdication of the minister's responsibilities.

"The idea that the Transport Department does not take a view on the increased environmental cost of road movements and does not promote rail in this modern era of road congestion and global warming is truly alarming.

"It shows just how "unjoined-up" Government thinking is, when the Environment Minister is constantly stressing the importance of reducing CO2 emissions and the Transport Minister is happily supporting more road and air transport.