HC Deb 03 February 1954 vol 523 cc358-9
27. Mr. Janner

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, in view of the fact that the provisions of Section 1 of the Road Transport Lighting Act, 1953, are to come into operation during the current year, when he intends to issue the detailed regulations setting out the precise requirements in regard to the obligation to have two unobscured and efficient red reflectors fitted to all motor vehicles; and when he intends to bring into force the provisions of Section 2 of that Act calling for the carrying of two red rear lamps on all motor vehicles.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Proposals for the regulations regarding rear reflectors were circulated last October, and I am now considering the very numerous comments received. I shall issue regulations at the earliest practicable date. The operative dates suggested in the same circular for the provisions of Section 2 of the Act as to rear lamps were 1st October, 1954, for all new vehicles; 1st October, 1955, for existing pedal cycles, motor-cycles, public service vehicles, goods vehicles and trailers, and agricultural implements mounted on or towed by tractors; and 1st October, 1957, for all other existing vehicles. I am, however, giving further consideration to these dates in the light of the comments I have received.

Mr. Janner

Could the Minister give any idea when he is likely to issue the first regulation?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

There has been an immense amount of correspondence on this matter and we are getting through it as fast as we can, but it is putting a very heavy strain on my officers.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

Will my right hon. Friend assure the House that, when these instructions are published, he will take the opportunity to comment on the grave danger caused by timber lorries which carry a light at the end of the timber and not at the end of the lorry?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Yes, Sir.

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