HC Deb 27 March 1934 vol 287 cc1804-6
40. Mr. McKEAG

asked the Minister of Transport how many different kinds of forms have been issued for completion by omnibus operators and others for various purposes under the Road Traffic Act, 1930; how many have become obsolete or have been withdrawn; and how many now remain in force?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of TRANSPORT (Lieut.-Colonel Headlam)

There are 18 standard forms in use in connection with the licensing of Public Service Vehicles, their drivers and conductors, and road passenger services under Part IV of the Road Traffic Act, 1930.

Special forms are used in London, where certain of the standard forms became obsolete after the passing of the London Passenger Transport Act, 1933.

I may add that the question of forms is kept under constant review with the object of simplification and reduction in numbers.

41. Mr. McKEAG

asked the Minister of Transport how many statutory rules and orders, regulations, and instructions have been issued under the Road Traffic Act, 1930; how many are now obsolete or have been withdrawn; and how many now remain in force?

Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAM

There are 11 sets of rules and orders relating to Public Service Vehicles, many of which have been amended from time to time to meet current developments. This figure omits the Transitory Provisions Orders (since cancelled) and an Order since replaced by the London Passenger Transport Act, 1933. Regulations have also been made with regard to driving licences, Third Party (Insurance) Risks, Speed Limits and Traffic Signs, and instructions issued as to statistical and financial returns. The possibility of further consolidation of the various sets of regulations is engaging my close attention.

Mr. McKEAG

Is my hon. and gallant Friend satisfied that operators and others affected, particularly the smaller operators, are able to keep abreast of this welter of changing and ever-increasing legislation by regulations?

Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAM

As I explained to my hon. Friend, we are keeping these regulations under review, and trying to reduce them as much as we can, and we are also trying to consolidate them; but obviously there are a great many, and it is a difficult matter for people to deal with.