§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Minister of Transport whether she is aware that under a new practice, details of which have been supplied to her, vehicle owners are able to use their vehicles for years without paying a licence fee, without road test certificates and without third party insurance, and that these offences only come to light after a serious accident; and what further action she proposes to take to prevent this abuse in the future.
§ Mr. CarmichaelThe law already requires changes of ownership to be notified but, even with an army of enforcement officers, it would be impossible physically to ensure compliance with this, or with the other legal requirements referred to, in every single case. Detection of offenders is a continuous process and strenous efforts are being made by the police and the local taxation authorities.
§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Minister of Transport in view of the fact that the police, who are understaffed, are unable to enforce the multifarious rules and regulations concerning Road Fund licences, roadworthy certificates, "C" licences, lighting, steering, brakes, etc., what arrangements she will make to ensure the enforcement of the new regulations connected with noise and exhaust sound problems; and whether she will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MorrisWe do not accept the premise in my hon. Friend's Question. Enforcement must generally remain106W the responsibility of the police, who devote a lot of effort to safety aspects. The Department will continue to contribute to enforcement of vehicle safety standards.