§ 42. Mr. G. R. Straussasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what progress he has made with the introduction of his scheme for the compulsory inspection of cars; and when he anticipates a scheme will start to operate.
§ Mr. WatkinsonTwo of my officers have just returned from a visit to the United States of America and Canada to inspect arrangements there for compulsory testing. I cannot yet say exactly when I shall be able to make a start on compulsory testing, but it will be as early next year as I can manage.
§ Mr. StraussIs not the matter being delayed far longer than it ought to be? Does the Minister remember saying, when the Bill was passed, that he would try to put it into operation as soon as possible? In view of the fact that when the scheme is in full operation, about 500 lives a year ought to be saved in this country, according to authoritative estimates, is it not rather late to send two representatives now to America, a year after the passing of the Bill, to see how they are doing such testing?
§ Mr. WatkinsonI do not in the least mind being pressed about this matter by the right hon. Gentleman; I know that we both want to get it done as quickly as possible, because of its effect on saving lives. The next step is to get out a scheme, and I think I am correct in saying that I am pledged to the House to put the scheme before it in a White Paper. I hope to do that fairly early next year.