§ Mr. Rhodes Jamesasked the Minister of Transport whether he proposes to initiate an inquiry into the subject of heavy goods vehicles; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FowlerI have decided that it would be right to proceed with an independent inquiry with the terms of reference already announced
To consider the cause and consequences of the growth in the movement of freight by road and, in particular, of the impact of the lorry on people and their environment; and to report on how best to ensure that future development serves the public interest".I will announce the form of the inquiry and its membership as soon as possible.The Government recognise the concern about heavy lorries. But they carry about two-thirds of our freight traffic and are of great importance to the economy. We need to see how the public interest is best served, taking account of economic benefits, the efficiency of road freight transport, and the damage and disruption which lorries can cause. In particular, the inquiry must face squarely the issue of whether there should be any change in the present limits on maximum weight.
People and organisations will be able to put their views to the inquiry, but I shall be concerned to see that it is not unduly protracted.