HC Deb 10 November 1967 vol 753 cc186-7W
Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government, in view of the time and cost involved for councils to trace owners of derelict vehicles and then to convey them to the pounds, if he will send a circular advising local authorities that it would be cheaper and easier for them to offer a nominal £2 fee for all cars driven to the councils' pounds and thus actively assist in removing these dangerous vehicles from the roads.

Mr. Skeffington

Before considering the hon. Member's suggestion my right hon. Friend would prefer to gain experience of the working of Part III of the Civic Amenities Act, 1967, the relevant parts of which do not come into operation until 27th January, 1968.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he is aware that as from 27th January, 1968, under the Civic Amenities Act, local councils will have powers to remove and dispose of abandoned vehicles; and what action he has taken, or intends to take, to circulate and advise local authorities of the urgent need to avail themselves of this opportunity, in view of the number of such vehicles which are now on the roads and streets causing damage and injury to children who tend to play on them and causing explosions of the petrol tanks.

Mr. Skeffington

Yes. My right hon. Friend and his right hon. Friends the Minister of Transport and the Secretary of State for Wales sent a circular in August to local authorities drawing their attention to the provisions of Part III of the Civic Amenities Act, 1967, which deals with the removal and disposal of abandoned vehicles and other refuse. My right hon. Friends intend to issue another circular early next year when regulations are made. They have no doubt that local authorities are fully aware of their new powers and duties.