HC Deb 19 December 1988 vol 144 cc11-2W
Mr. Brandon-Bravo

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the level of enforcement activity by his Department's traffic examiners.

Mr. Peter Bottomley

Substantial increases in the level of enforcement activity are being achieved by improved productivity and a targeting of resources on key priorities.

There has been a steep increase in the number of lorries weighed.

During the six months April to September 1988 the traffic examiners weighed about 60,000 lorries. This is nearly 80 per cent. above the 1987 level and 125 per cent. above 1986. The corresponding increases in the number of tachograph charts checked were nearly 40 per cent. and 70 per cent.

More rigorous and effective enforcement of the law on overloading and drivers' hours will improve safety and reduce road damage.