HC Deb 14 July 1969 vol 787 cc23-4
46. Mr. Kenneth Lewis

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will now lay before the House revised regulations for the rear lighting of lorries.

Mr. Carmichael

Present lighting equipment is, in general, adequate and we have already made regulations requiring improved reflectors for new vehicles from next year. We are now completing proposals, in consultation with manufacturers and users, for conspicuous marker plates for larger vehicles in reflectorised and fluorescent material, and we shall lay regulations on these as soon as technical details can be settled.

Mr. Lewis

Is the Minister aware that when I asked this question about three months ago he said that consideration was being given to this matter and that new regulations would be laid? Would not it be a good idea for the regulations to be laid before the winter, because many lorries using motorways are inadequately lit and this leads to accidents?

Mr. Carmichael

Yes, this is a very important point. Difficulties exist in fitting plates to the large range of vehicles involved, and we are considering ways of resolving the difficulties before making final proposals.

Mrs. Thatcher

Will the regulations include compulsory brake lights, because many of us think these are as important as extra reflectors?

Mr. Carmichael

I would like notice of this Question. I was under the im- pression that this was the case. Perhaps the hon. Lady will allow me to write to her on this matter.