HC Deb 02 February 1931 vol 247 cc1448-9W
Mr. REMER

asked the Minister of Transport if his attention has been called to the conveyance by road, during last week, of a large ship's boiler from Liverpool to London; if he is aware that this vehicle not only caused damage to the public highway but also dislocation of traffic along the Watling Street; and what steps he will take to prevent such a vehicle loaded in this way travelling on the roads in future?

Mr. HERBERT MORRISON

I have seen references in the Press to the conveyance of a large boiler by road. The movement of such articles by road must, in the interests of trade, be permitted on occasion, particularly when the articles in question are outside railway gauge. Highway authorities have their legal remedy in respect of damage occasioned by extraordinary traffic and further, in the Motor Vehicles (Authorisation of Special Types) Order, 1931, which has been recently made, it is provided that any one using a special vehicle for the conveyance by road of an exceptional load shall give notice to the highway authority and that such notice shall contain an indemnity in respect of any damage caused to any road or bridge by reason of the construction of the vehicle or the weight transmitted to the road surface not being in accordance with the general Regulations as to the construction and use of motor vehicles.