HC Deb 20 June 1979 vol 968 cc1293-4
1. Mr. Dudley Smith

asked the Minister of Transport what is his policy over the use of heavier lorries on British roads.

15. Mr. Snape

asked the Minister of Transport when he expects to announce the names of the chairman and other members of the independent committee of inquiry into heavy lorries.

The Minister of Transport (Mr. Norman Fowler)

I announced to the House on 22 May my decision to have an independent inquiry into lorries and their impact on the environment. I shall be announcing the form of the inquiry and its membership shortly.

Mr. Smith

Is my right hon. Friend aware that because heavy lorries use practically every road in the country more and more thoroughfares are being severely damaged? Is he also aware that such lorries are increasingly causing great environmental difficulties to villages and urban areas? Any idea that the total weight of lorries should be increased is unacceptable unless we can have properly designated thoroughfares, and their use propertly enforced.

Mr. Fowler

I recognise the concern of my hon. Friend and the general public. That is why having an inquiry is a sensible way to proceed. My announcement has been generally welcomed. Clearly, no decision will be taken on the other question until we have the results of the committee of inquiry.

Mr. Snape

Is the Minister aware that the decision to go ahead with the committee of inquiry is welcome to the Opposition? In view of the well-publicised views of one of his former civil servants, will he assure us that the committee will be seen to be fair and impartial? Will he also guarantee that the members of the committee represent the various conflicting interests, so that all can see that its deliberations are fair and above board?

Mr. Fowler

Clearly, what happened under the previous Administration is not for me to answer for. When I was in opposition I favoured a proper inquiry, which in my view means an independent assessment of the many problems associated with this subject. I assure the House that the inquiry will be absolutely independent.

Mr. Grimond

Will the Minister give us an assurance that it will be within the committee's power to examine the possibility of banning heavy lorries from certain roads altogether?

Mr. Fowler

The committee will have wide terms of reference. I shall ensure that the right hon. Gentleman's point is put to it.

Mr. Kenneth Baker

Has my right hon. Friend seen that today the French Government have set an upper limit of 50 m.p.h. for heavy lorries on motorways in France, and 37 m.p.h. for vehicles on other major roads as energy conservation measures? Will this consideration be taken into account in the inquiry?

Mr. Fowler

On first examination I do not think that that would come within the inquiry, but I shall consider the matter.