HC Deb 28 October 1953 vol 518 cc2789-90
40. Mr. Nabarro

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he has now completed his reconsideration of the 20 miles per hour limit applied to certain road haulage vehicles; and when he proposes to raise the limit for these vehicles to 30 miles per hour.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I regret that I am not yet in a position to reconsider the decision communicated to the House on 22nd June last.

Mr. Nabarro

Does that reply mean that the matter is now a closed book, or will my right hon. Friend undertake to many of us in this House and amongst the general public who are interested in the considerations involved, that he will review it again at some time in the future?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

If I may use the terminology of the Cambridgeshire, I would say to my hon. Friend that he must not assume that this is indeed a closed book. It is quite the contrary.

Mr. Peter Freeman

Before accepting this suggestion, will the right hon. Gentleman consult the local authorities on this matter to satisfy himself, in particular, that this increased speed of vehicles on the public roads is in accordance with public safety?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I think the local authorities are also aware that only 6 per cent. of the people concerned are now observing the law.

Sir H. Williams

Has my right hon. Friend ever seen one of these vehicles in normal circumstances travelling at anything under 30 miles per hour?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Not since I have been Minister.

Mr. Awbery

In view of the possibility of an increase in the number of accidents if the speed of the vehicles is increased, will the Minister consult with the men primarily concerned, the drivers of the vehicles?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Of course I am and have been throughout in close touch with the trade unions concerned, and I pay great regard to what they say, but I have also duties to the country as a whole.