HC Deb 16 November 1926 vol 199 cc1669-70
31. Brigadier - General CLIFTON BROWN

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the Berkshire County Council recently adopted resolutions expressing their opinion that the steps he has taken up to date and his Circular No. 245 (Roads) of 18th August are not sufficient to obtain the adoption of rubber pads or tyres on all types of heavy road vehicles, and urging the necessity of legislation prohibiting the use of steel tyres on heavy road vehicles; whether he has had representations on this matter from other local councils; and whether, in view of the urgency of the question, he will make Regulations to safeguard roads from steel tyred damage before the summer of 1927?

33. Mr. LOOKER

asked the Minister of Transport whether he proposes to take any steps to limit the user of the roads by heavy iron-tyred vehicles, except so far as such vehicles may be used for agricultural purposes?

Colonel ASHLEY

I am aware of the representations to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers. On the whole, I am fairly satisfied with the progress made in the direction of fitting these heavy vehicles with rubber tyres or pads, and as an instance I may mention the action taken by the National Showmen's Guild. In addition to the issue of the Circular to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers, I am taking every oppos4tunity that presents itself to encourage the practice. I have not at present the necessary powers to make comprehensive regulations in the matter, but I propose to seek such powers in the Bill dealing with road vehicles, which I hope shortly to be able to introduce.