HC Deb 20 May 1968 vol 765 cc28-9W
Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Minister of Transport on what date the hon. Member for West Ham, North, first reported that a lorry, registration number 5239K, carrying on a fruit and vegetable business, was in daily use without a current road fund licence; on how many occasions this vehicle has been reported; when one of his enforcement officers visited Winkfield Road, N22, to observe this; when prosecution for enforcement of the law commenced; and what was the result.

Mr. Bob Brown

I understand that my hon. Friend reported this vehicle as being apparently unlicensed to the Greater London Council in March, 1968. The other points contained in the Question are matters within the responsibility of that Council. I have brought my hon. Friend's inquiry to the attention of that Council.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Minister of Transport on what date the hon. Member for West Ham, North, first reported that van number MLA713 was being driven without a road fund licence; on how many occasions since have reports been made; when proceedings for enforcement were commenced; and what was the result.

Mr. Bob Brown

The matters referred to in the Question are matters which fall within the day-to-day responsibility of the Greater London Council, but I understand that my hon. Friend first reported this vehicle in August, 1967. We are also informed that the vehicle in question is currently licensed, and has been continuously licensed since June, 1967.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Minister of Transport what is the average time for an investigation to be made and prosecution to ensue when a report is made that a road vehicle is illegally using the road in that the owner has no current road fund licence.

Mr. Bob Brown

An average time would be meaningless. In any case this information is not available, and the expense of inquiry would not be justified.