HC Deb 22 June 1953 vol 516 cc1466-7
4. Mr. Renton

asked the Minister of Transport what steps are taken by his Department to ensure compliance with Section 19 of the Road Traffic Act, 1930, and Section 16 of the Road and Rail Traffic Act, 1933.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Enforcement of the provisions of these Sections forms part of the duties of the examiners appointed under Section 69 of the Road Traffic Act, 1930, and Section 17 of the Road and Rail Traffic Act, 1933. These officers are on the staff of the licensing authorities for goods vehicles and act under their direction. The approximate number of examiners engaged mainly on these particular duties averages about 120.

Mr. Renton

Is my right hon. Friend sure that 120 examiners is enough to perform these duties, bearing in mind all their other duties? Also, is the present strength of 120 examiners in accordance with the establishment laid down for his Department?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

With regard to the second part of the supplementary question, driving traffic examiners and driving examiners perform other functions as well and no strict number is allowed for in my Department for this purpose. As to the second part of the supplementary question, at the moment the figure is adequate but we always keep it under review.

Mr. Ernest Davies

Would it not be desirable to increase the number in view of the great increase in evasion which is taking place at the present time, which is inevitable because of the transport policy being pursued by the Government, there being an increase in competition leading to cut-throat competition?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

That is not only hypothetical but quite inaccurate.