40. Mr. Gresham Cookeasked the Minister of Transport what consideration he has given to the advantages to the United Kingdom of ratification of the agreement concluded under the auspices of the Economic Commission for Europe relating to the adoption of uniform conditions of approval and reciprocal recognition of approval for motor vehicle equipment and parts: and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MarplesNine European countries have now joined or signified their intention of joining this Agreement: and this Agreement promises to make important progress in establishing uniformity throughout Europe in the requirements for and conditions of approval of motor vehicle equipment and parts. With a view to encouraging trade between the United Kingdom and the Continent and in the light of the advantages to be gained by United Kingdom manufacturers, Her Majesty's Government have decided that it would be in the best interests of this country to adhere to the Agreement as soon as possible. Legislation will be required in order to enable the Government to fulfil their obligations under the Agreement, and I shall shortly propose an Amendment seeking the necessary powers in the Road Traffic Bill now before the House.
Mr. Gresham CookeIs my right hon. Friend aware that he will be in the Chancellor's good books, as what he is proposing will undoubtedly help exports?
§ Mr. MarplesAs Minister of Transport, I always like to be in the good books of my right hon. and learned Friend the Chancellor.