HC Deb 19 March 1980 vol 981 c403
18. Mr. Robert Atkins

asked the Minister of Transport if he is satisfied with type approval regulations.

Mr. Fowler

I am currently considering whether any changes are needed to the regulations.

Mr. Atkins

Does my right hon. Friend think it an anomaly that there should be strict type approval regulations for private vehicles but apparently no type approval regulations for commercial vehicles? Is this not detrimental to Leyland vehicles, for example, at a time when it has produced a new vehicle capable of making competitive inroads into commercial vehicle sales?

Mr. Fowler

I understand my hon. Friend's concern. It is a concern that has also been expressed by Michael Edwardes. We are considering the possibilities. I hope to be able to announce a decision shortly.

Mr. Canavan

Does the Minister agree that the 13 per cent. swing against the Tories at Southend demonstrates a distinct lack of approval for the "Cathcart retread"?

Mr. Fowler

I advise the hon. Gentleman to wait a little in case he crows too early.