§ 102. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Minister of Transport what publicity he is giving to the activities and the increase in the number of vehicle examiners and to their powers to deal with the nuisance of diesel fumes; and how many of such vehicle examiners will be operating in Essex.
§ Mr. MarplesMy plans to increase roadside inspections have been widely publicised through the national and technical Press, broadcasting and the associations representing goods vehicle operators Up to three weeks' advance notice will be given to local newspapers and to operators' associations of the intended "blitz" operations.
Most of Essex forms part of the Eastern Traffic Area where the present staff complement includes 22 vehicle examiners and 2 supervisory engineers. I cannot say how many will be working in the county at any particular time.
§ Sir B. Jannerasked the Minister of Transport how many heavy lorries have been put out of action during the last ascertained period of 12 months or less after spot checks have been made by his engineers; and how many teams of engineers are available for these examinations.
§ Mr. MarplesThirty-two thousand, eight hundred and forty-five prohibition notices were issued during the 12 months ending 31st March, 1964, of which just over 9,000 were made immediately effective. The teams used on spot checks vary in size, but the total number of208W vehicle examiners at present in post is 341. This number is to be increased to 410.