§ 42. Brigadier - General CLIFTON BROWNasked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been drawn to serious damage caused to roads in various parts of the country by the use thereon of traction-engines and tractors fitted with steel tyres; and, if so, what steps he proposes to take to prevent similar damage being occasioned in the future?
§ Colonel ASHLEYMy attention has been drawn, on several occasions, to this matter, particularly in connection with certain roads in Scotland last summer. I have been in communication with the Showmen's Guild and the Traction Engine Owners' Association, and both organisations have agreed to urge the adoption of rubber tyres or pads on all the types of vehicles referred to, other than those used for purely agricultural purposes on the land. This alteration has already been made on a considerable number of vehicles, and I am informed that the results have proved very satisfactory to the users. I hope that this practice will shortly become universal. If, however, the use of steel tyres on vehicles intended for the roads continues, I shall endeavour to secure power to prohibit them.