HC Deb 09 December 1968 vol 775 c5
11. Mr. Gordon Campbell

asked the Minister of Transport if he will make a statement on progress with the scheme for testing and plating commercial vehicles.

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport (Mr. Neil Carmichael)

The scheme was introduced in England and Wales on 1st October and in Scotland on 1st December. The oldest classes of motor vehicles and trailers are now being plated and tested at Ministry testing stations. The arrangements for carrying out the inspections are working well. The results of tests conducted to date are encouraging.

Mr. Campbell

In view of the delay in starting the scheme and the comparatively small number of vehicles tested so far, have the Government done enough to publicise the requirements? What action will the Minister take if many of the appropriate vehicles are not submitted for testing by the target dates?

Mr. Carmichael

The Government have gone to great lengths to publicise this in the newspapers, trade magazines and the technical Press. A number of television appearances have also been made, and as the new stations were opened I and my right hon. and hon. Friends have made a point of stressing their importance. If vehicles have not been tested after a certain date, the owners will be liable to prosecution.

Mr. Webster

In view of the shortfall of £900,000 in the winter Supplementary Estimates, what will be the revised estimates for receipts next year?

Mr. Carmichael

I need notice of that question.