HL Deb 27 January 2005 vol 668 cc186-8WA
Lord Berkeley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What investigations are under way to assess the possibilities of introducing heavier, longer or wider lorries or combinations of lorries and trailers onto some or all United Kingdom roads. [HL961]

Lord Davies of Oldham

My honourable friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Transport (Mr David Jamieson) is considering applications from two hauliers for permission to trial longer and heavier, but not wider, goods vehicles. His officials are investigating the safety issues surrounding the vehicles, such as the manoeuvrability of the combination, stability and braking performance, and the impact of the vehicle on other road users.

Longer and heavier goods vehicles are, however, used in Sweden and Finland where they are deployed for a unique purpose. They are also being trialled in the Netherlands.