HC Deb 16 June 1982 vol 25 cc943-4
16. Mr. John Townend

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement about future arrangements for the testing and plating of goods vehicles.

Mrs. Chalker

As my right hon. Friend told the House on 24 May, during consideration of the Transport Bill as reported from Committee, we have reached agreement in principle with Lloyd's Register of Shipping on the establishment of a new association, under its control, to undertake the testing of both goods vehicles and public service vehicles in the private sector.

Mr. Townend

What benefits does my hon. Friend see as a result of Lloyd's Register taking on responsibility for the testing and plating of heavy goods vehicles?

Mrs. Chalker

I am sure that the Lloyd's Register vehicle testing association will ensure a system of impartiality and high standards, backed by the well-known traditions of Lloyd's Register. I am sure also that it will command the confidence of the industry and lead to the improvements that we have always wanted to see in the service. I am glad that the organisational structure of Lloyd's Register will fully involve the industry in the decisions that it will take about the future of testing. I think that it will benefit all concerned.

Mr. Bagier

Will the Minister say what difference in impartiality will result from handing over this responsibility to Lloyd's Register? Since, during the Committee stage of the Bill, it was apparent to most of us in Committee that Lloyd's Register was not interested in this, what carrots have been held out to cause it now to favour taking over?

Mrs. Chalker

Following the Committee debate there has been a rethink, and Lloyd's Register has come forward with sensible suggestions for taking over the testing of heavy goods vehicles and public service vehicles. The industry is already being consulted through the Vehicle Operators' Advisory Panel, and Lloyd's Register has made this offer, which I am sure will bring improvements in flexibility and benefit for vehicle operators in the hours of testing. We hope to see a pilot project before long to make sure that the provisions which the Lloyd's Register vehicle testing association expects to employ will work thoroughly and well.