Transport Minister Norman Baker was speaking during a Westminster Hall debate on 1 December 2011 on a report by the Transport Committee on the impact of last year's winter weather.

BBC: Transport debate

Anthony Christopher, WLGA's spokesman for highways, infrastructure and transport, said local authorities had worked together to prepare for winter.

BBC: Road salt stocks at 'record levels' ahead of winter

Responding for the government, Transport Minister Chris Mole said that "this unprecedentedly prolonged and exceptionally cold winter has caused difficulty for all highway authorities".

BBC: Adjournment debate

It was highlighted during the debate that adverse weather conditions during the winter months impacts on a range of public services, from the health service to transport infrastructure.

BBC: Liberal Democrats debate