HC Deb 21 December 1960 vol 632 c1279
15. Mr. Fisher

asked the Minister of Transport if he will now relax the 30 miles-per-hour speed limit for light commercial vehicles.

Mr. Marples

When this proposal was considered last year objections were raised to raising the limit for light commercial vehicles only. I am keeping the general question of vehicle speed limits under review.

Mr. Fisher

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that there is a considerable difference between a heavy lorry and a light commercial vehicle which might suitably be reflected in a similar difference in the speed limit?

Mr. Marples

I will. The question of speed limits for all goods vehicles, as well as for public service passenger vehicles, is under consideration.

Mr. Mellish

Will the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that before any decision is taken in this matter the trade unions involved will be consulted, because they have an interest in the personnel who drive these vehicles?

Mr. Marples

Certainly. We have already been in touch with them on other matters, and we shall be in touch with them on this.

Mr. Gresham Cooke

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that the light van is built on a car chassis and is therefore the same as a car?

Mr. Marples

Yes.

Mr. Mackie

Is it not a fact that if one puts a seat in a light van, one can then drive at the speeds permitted to a motor car?

Hon. Members

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