§ Mr. MITCHELL-THOMSONasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware of the damage which is being done to road surfaces in some parts of Ireland by the increase in traction-engine traffic; and whether, in view of the increase thereby caused in the expenditure on road maintenance, he will consider the 37 advisability of introducing regulations to compel the fitting of such engines with wheels sufficiently wide to minimise the damage or of introducing legislation to empower the levying of a special rate on owners of such engines?
§ Mr. BIRRELLRepresentations have been made to the Local Government Board to the effect indicated in the question. The width of the tyres on the wheels of traction engines is expressly fixed by the Locomotive Acts of 1861 and 1865. As regards the suggestion contained in the concluding portion of the question I cannot undertake, at present, at all events, to introduce leglislation making the owners of traction engines in Ireland liable for damage to roads.
§ Mr. JEREMIAH MacVEAGHWill the right hon. Gentleman make representations to the Chancellor of the Exchequer as to the advisability of putting a tax upon these traction engines and giving the proceeds of the tax to the local authorities?
§ Mr. BIRRELLYes. I will make representations to my right hon. Friend.