HC Deb 04 February 1971 vol 810 cc455-6W
Sir C. Bossom

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement about emergency arrangements for the renewal of vehicle and driving licences during the period of the postal strike.

Mr. Peyton

While the strike continues anyone needing to renew a vehicle or driving licence must apply in person to his local taxation officer, or arrange for someone else to do so on his behalf. I very much regret the inconvenience that this may cause but this is a direct consequence of the strike.

Sir C. Bossom

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will extend the extra-statutory concessionary period for the renewal of vehicle licences of 14 days for a period expiring one week after the end of the postal strike.

Mr. Peyton

The non-statutory period allowed for the renewal of licences which expired on 31st January has, of course, still more than 10 days to run, and I have at present no intention of extending it.

Mr. Crawshaw

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will permit the renewal of Road Fund licences at the nearest office of convenience to the individual motorist.

Mr. Peyton

I understand that some local taxation authorities are already helping each other, and the public, in this way. I welcome the arrangements they have made.

Mr. Crawshaw

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will give added facilities for the issuing of road fund licences in order to deal with the large number of motorists who are obliged to make personal application owing to the postal strike; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Peyton

It must be for individual local taxation authorities to decide whether additional facilities can be provided in the light of the resources they have available.