§ 39. Mr. Ridleyasked the Minister of Transport if he will, at an early date and before the Summer Recess, lay before Parliament regulations to control motor rallies.
§ Mr. SwinglerWe aim to make regulations as soon as possible, probably in June. But to allow promoters time to apply for the necessary authorisation there will be an interval of six months before it becomes an offence to hold an unauthorised event.
§ Mr. RidleyIs it not true that Lord Chesham made his report nearly a year ago and that it is a very serious matter if this summer is also to be one in which there is no control of motor rallies? Will the hon. Gentleman look at that Answer again to see if he can bring in regulations in time for this summer season in view of the grave importance of this matter to selected villages in the countryside?
§ Mr. SwinglerI appreciate what the hon. Member has said, but a large number of local and national organisations have had to be consulted and there have been other kinds of hiatus in the last 12 months. It has been a long period, I agree, but the process of preparation is going forward. I give an assurance that we will bring forward the regulations as soon as possible when the consultations are completed.