HC Deb 01 December 1965 vol 721 cc1417-8
30. Mr. Gurden

asked the Minister of Transport when new vehicle lighting regulations will be made.

Mr. Swingler

My right hon. Friend has set up a working party with representatives of manufacturers, users, road safety organisations and the police to consider current problems of vehicle lighting and to review the regulations. The working party will make recommendations on specific aspects of lighting as soon as it is able to reach conclusions.

Mr. Gurden

Does the hon. Gentleman realise that the Ministry is years behind other countries in making regulations and that it is quite legal for a vehicle to drive at 70 m.p.h. without having more than parking lights on? Is it not time that something was done about it?

Mr. Swingler

I do not agree with what the hon. Gentleman says. We have been having discussions with the manufacturers and others about lighting, however. New regulations regarding certain vehicles and a heavy goods testing scheme will be introduced shortly and we hope to announce new decisions on the subject.