§ Mr. Teddy Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Transport if the introduction of the proposals for 38 tonne lorries on British roads, subject to the safeguards which he has announced, will have the effect of excluding from British roads the lorries of 40 tonnes weight which are permissible in other parts of the European Economic Community; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. David HowellThe maximum gross weight limit of 38 tonnes, for articulated lorries on five axles, will apply to all lorries used on British roads irrespective of their country of origin.
§ Mr. Boothasked the Secretary of State for Transport what advice he has received from the British Railways Board concerning the effect of permitting the use of 38-tonne tipper road lorries on rail traffic and annual revenue.
§ Mr. David HowellI understand that BR has suggested that some business might be diverted to 38-tonne tipper lorries. I believe the board has, however, warmly welcomed the 60 per cent. section 8 grant and its application to Freightliner and Sealink. To ensure fair competition, heavy lorries will from the outset be taxed to cover their full road track costs.