§ 2.26 p.m.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government whether any notable reduction of accidents has been noted since the inspection of cars over ten years old has been in force; whether it is intended to reduce the inspection period, and, if so, why and when.]
§ THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT (LORD CHESHAM)My Lords, as recorded in the annual report on road accidents, there were nearly 1,500 fewer accidents in 1961 than in the preceding year. In the first five months of this year there was a reduction of between 4 per cent. and 5 per cent. compared with the corresponding period in 1961. 1006 I think this can be regarded as a notable reduction, because for the first time the annual increase in the road accident rate was halted despite the fact that motor traffic, measured in terms of vehicle mileage, is estimated to have increased by 8 per cent. between 1960 and 1961. To what extent the vehicle testing scheme contributed to this it is, of course, not possible to estimate. That it played a part there can be no doubt. As to the last part of the Question, there are no present plans for reducing the inspection period. We are satisfied that as a general policy extension of the testing scheme to include vehicles in lower age groups will better serve the interests of road safety.