HC Deb 24 July 1968 vol 769 cc567-8
28. Mr. Rossi

asked the Minister of Transport by what date he now expects that the network of goods vehicle testing stations will be fully operational.

Mr. Swingler

By 1st October in England and Wales and 1st December in Scotland.

Mr. Rossi

I welcome the fact that there will not be another postponement of this scheme. How far has the Minister progressed in the recruitment of manpower for the testing stations? By what date will all classes of vehicles be covered?

Mr. Swingler

The hon. Gentleman obviously knows that we have had difficulties in the recruitment of manpower, but we are making steady progress. He is right to state that there is no intention to have any further postponement. Therefore, in spite of the fact that we are to have a three-months' delay because of the Minister's decision to make the postponement, we shall adhere to the original timetable announced at the time of the passage of the Road Safety Act.