HC Deb 05 February 1958 vol 581 cc1176-7
32. Sir F. Medlicott

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he is aware of the difficulties caused by cold weather to drivers of long-distance lorries, with adverse effects upon the standards of driving; and if he will introduce regulations which will lead at a reasonably early date to the provision of heaters on lorries being made compulsory.

Mr. Nugent

I think this would be better dealt with by negotiation between employer and employed, rather than by statutory regulations.

Sir F. Medlicott

Does not my hon. Friend think that this amenity would be very greatly appreciated by lorry drivers and that many of them are not likely to get it unless the provision of it is made compulsory?

Mr. Nugent

I would not agree with my hon. Friend. The matter is quite capable of negotiation, but it would not be easy to enforce as a regulation. It would be better dealt with in that way.

Mr. Lindgren

While we accept the point made by the Minister that the matter is far better dealt with by negotiation between the workers' and employers' organisations, may I ask whether the hon. Gentleman appreciates that vast numbers of these lorry drivers are unorganised now that they are back with private enterprise and that therefore the evasion of regulations and of the requirements of regulations is greater than it was when they were operating a public service?

Mr. Nugent

I would not accept the implication in the end of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question. I would put it the other way round. I would be very hesitant to say that a vehicle should be taken off the road if its body heater was not in action. I do not think the matter is suitable for regulations.

Mr. Gresham Cooke

Is my hon. Friend aware that in most lorries the engine is either forward or under the floor, and that the complaint has been that the cabs are too hot, not that they are too cold?