HC Deb 12 January 1977 vol 923 cc489-90W
44. Mr. Hardy

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what estimate he has made of the annual cost the community would have to bear from the operation of an average 40-ton axle lorry, on the basis of current taxation arrangements.

Mr. William Rodgers

There are great difficulties in quantifying total costs to the community for any type of vehicle. But I shall not agree to an increase in lorry weights until I am convinced that the benefits of greater efficiency and fewer lorries can be reconciled with the needs of safety and the protection of the environment.