HC Deb 02 June 1965 vol 713 cc222-3W
94. Lady Gammans

asked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of a further recent accident involving a runaway lorry on Highgate Hill, and the death of the driver, he will now make further regulations regarding the roadworthiness of heavily loaded lorries.

Mr. Tom Fraser

I learned with regret of this accident. Until the inquiries for which I have asked are completed I cannot say whether the mechanical condition of the vehicle involved caused or contributed to this particular accident.

I share the hon. Member's concern about the general need to improve standards of roadworthiness and I have decided to proceed with an annual testing scheme for heavy goods vehicles. I have considered the proposals put forward by the representative bodies I consulted, and I have come to the conclusion that the most effective solution lies in the provision of testing stations especially for this purpose. These stations would also be used for the operation of a scheme for "plating" to prevent overloading, whereby each lorry will carry a plate showing the maximum load which it may legally carry. Legislation will be required before these schemes can be put into operation. Furthermore the acquisition of sites for stations and the recruitment and training of staff will take time.

I propose to hold further discussions on the number of stations that will be needed and on their location. I shall examine the suggestion that visiting inspectors should conduct tests on the premises of fleet owners with large and well-equipped depôts, and I shall consider what special arrangements should be made in remote areas. There will also be further consultations about the introduction and enforcement of "plating".

Meanwhile, the programme of roadside checks of goods vehicles will be intensified. Additional staff are being recruited for this purpose and for the control of drivers' hours. As soon as possible arrangements, including the recruitment of the necessary staff, will also be made to introduce special tests for the drivers of heavy goods vehicles.