HC Deb 12 July 1967 vol 750 cc798-9
10. Mr. van Straubenzee

asked the Minister of Transport whether she is satisfied that in modern conditions a bicycle lamp is adequate as the sole means of front lighting of a motor cycle; and when she proposes to introduce amending regulations.

Mr. Swingler

No, Sir. Most motor cycles are already equipped with adequate front lights, but we are now considering amending existing regulations to make the fitting of adequate headlamps obligatory.

Mr. van Straubenzee

The hon. Gentleman says that he is considering it. Will he add to that helpful answer by giving a time scale? Does he appreciate that it comes as a surprise to many people to discover that the present law permits a mere bicycle lamp to be regarded as adequate lighting on the front of a motor cycle?

Mr. Swingler

The hon. Gentleman is quite right. We have circulated draft regulations regarding four-wheeled vehicles as the result of the report of the lighting Working Party on this subject. My right hon. Friend is urgently considering the question in relation to motor cycles, and, no doubt, we shall issue draft regulations shortly.