§ 98. Sir W. SEAGERasked the Ministry of Transport whether there is a legal maximum width and length for motor lorries and chars-à-banc; and, if not, will he introduce legislation to limit the width 2426 and length of such vehicles so as to eliminate the possible holding up of traffic and the many dangers to which all users of roads are now exposed by reason of the unwieldly size of these vehicles?
§ Mr. NEALThe only general Regulations with regard to the size and weight of heavy motor cars are those contained in the Motor Car (Use and Construction) Order, 1904, and the Heavy Motor Car Order, 1904, to which I would refer my hon. Friend. Under these Orders the width of a heavy motor car cannot exceed 7 ft. 6 ins., but there is at present no restriction as to the length. As my hon. Friend is aware, the whole question of the regulation of road vehicles is at present under consideration, and I do not think it desirable to deal with it piecemeal.
§ Mr. PEMBERTON BILLINGIs the hon Gentleman aware that a great many country roads barely exceed seven foot six, and will he bear that in mind having regard to the fact that frequently motor and other traffic is held up in the country on account of these big chars-a-banc?
§ Mr. NEALThat matter is dealt with under the Bill the hon. Member intimated that he had not read when he opposed the Second Reading.
§ Mr. STANTONIs the hon. Gentle, man aware that poor people cannot afford ordinary motor cars and have to take advantage of the other thing, and some convenience should surely be granted to make it possible for them to ride in their own car?
§ Mr. NEALAn opportunity of discussing the whole matter will arise on the Committee stage of the Roads Bill tomorrow.