HC Deb 19 May 1978 vol 950 c318W
Mr. George Rodgers

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will take steps to ensure that the amber and red reflective plates which should be displayed on lorry vehicles are in position on lorries delivering loads from the Continent; and if he will introduce examinations of such vehicles at ports of entry.

Mr. Horam

Vehicles moving in international traffic must comply with certain agreed requirements relating to lighting equipment and reflectors. But rear markings on heavy goods vehicles are not part of these requirements, and there is in fact no legal obligation for such markings to be displayed on vehicles registered abroad and brought only temporarily into this country. We already operate a system of spot checks at ports of entry where vehicles are examined for compliance with legal requirements on weight and mechanical condition.