HC Deb 22 July 1964 vol 699 cc87-8W
49. Sir B. Janner

asked the Minister of Transport how many teams of engineers are now being utilised for the purpose of checking heavy lorries; how many lorries have been examined by the teams during the last month; and how many of the vehicles examined were found to be dangerous and had to be taken off the road.

Mr. Marples

Normally there are at least twelve teams at work. More are being provided for the current series of special checks. In June 6,858 goods vehicles were inspected. 3,787 prohibition notices were issued of which 625 had immediate effect.

62. Mr. Driberg

asked the Minister of Transport if he will make a statement on the random check of heavy lorries on the A.40 in which he participated on 13th July; who is the owner of the lorry driven by Mr. Frank Egan, in which 22 faults were found; who are the owners of the other lorries found to be defective on this occasion; and if he will institute proceedings against the firms responsible for putting these lorries on the road.

Mr. Marples

Eighty-two vehicles were stopped and examined. Fifty-two were found to be defective and prohibition notices were issued for them. In nine of the cases the prohibitions were made with immediate effect. This check formed part of the two day intensive operation in the London area when 24 sites were in use. During this operation 1,929 vehicles were inspected and 1,119 prohibition notices were issued, 195 of them with immediate effect. In these cases the circumstances may vary con- siderably and I do not consider that it would be appropriate for me to publish the owners' names. I understand that the police have given warning in some cases (including that mentioned by the hon. Member) that the facts would be reported for possible prosecution.