HC Deb 26 February 1930 vol 235 cc2247-8
71. Viscount ELMLEY

asked the Minister of Transport if it is intended in any way to alter the present regulations relating to the size of motor-bicycle number plates?

Mr. HERBERT MORRISON

Notice of my intention to amend the present regu- lations was given in the London and Edinburgh Gazettes of the 24th January, and I am sending the hon. Member a copy of the draft Regulations which I propose to make, subject to any amendments which may be made as the result of representations put forward within the prescribed limit of time.

Viscount ELMLEY

Is the Minister of Transport aware that the proposed increase in size will mean that all present stocks will have to be scrapped and that motor cyclists will have to buy new plates and new lamps, which will mean a loss of thousands of pounds not only to cyclists, but to manufacturers as well?

Mr. MORRISON

I am aware of the objections which motor cyclists and the trade have to the change, and, before making the change, I met representatives of the trade and the motor cyclists' organisations and discussed the matter with them. One must take into account their objections, but I must also take into account the insistent demand of the police that the number plates should be adequate in size.