34. Mr. Atkinsasked the Minister of Transport what advice she has received indicating that the fixing of mud flaps behind the rear wheels of motor vehicles is a contribution to road safety; and what action she proposes to take to cause such flaps to be fixed.
§ Mr. SwinglerInvestigations by the Road Research Laboratory have shown that improved mudguards and mudflaps can reduce spray behind commercial vehicles and lessen the danger of obscuring windscreens of following vehicles. They are, however, of little benefit on private cars, especially when travelling at speed.
Manufacturers are now considering improved designs of mudguard in relation to the design of commercial vehicle bodies generally and in the light of progress made my right hon. Friend will consider what further action she need take.
Mr. AtkinsWhile I am grateful for that reply, may I ask whether the hon. Gentleman would agree that even on private vehicles there is considerably less risk of stones and other material being thrown up to the windscreens of following cars if mud flaps are fixed? Will he look at this matter again to see if there should be regulations requiring the fixing of flaps?
§ Mr. SwinglerI do not know whether the hon. Member has seen the film by the Road Research Laboratory—if not I shall be pleased to make arrangements for him to see it—but I am afraid that 1772 it shows that there would be little benefit for private cars.