Mr. Silkinasked the Minister of Transport whether, he is aware that to an increasing extent the highway in urban areas is used for the abandonment of unwanted vehicles, and that these are frequently left in a condition potentially dangerous to children and other road users; and what further steps he proposes to take to deal with this situation.
§ Mr. Tom FraserI am well aware of this problem. Local authorities have adequate powers to remove immediately and after six weeks to dispose of vehicles abandoned on the highway. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government will shortly be issuing a circular to local authorities on the general problem of abandoned cars. This will refer to existing powers and will also deal with dangers to children.