§ Mr. Gordon BrownTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what account has been taken of the degree of hazard posed during road transportation of compressed gases in specifying the safety requirements placed upon the transport of compressed gases;
(2) if he will review the specification for the design and construction of vehicles used for the transport of compressed gases requiring that the structures are strong enough to withstand a collision with other vehicles;
(3) if he will take steps to require the owners of dangerous materials being transported in or around Britain to hold third party insurance capable of covering claims that could arise from any accident;
(4) what requirement is placed upon the owners of cargoes to consult or obtain approval from the police authority in the transportation of compressed gases; and if there is any requirement to obtain or secure approval from each police area through which compressed gases are being transported.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyCompressed gases carried in bulk in a road tanker or tank container are subject to the656W Dangerous Substances (Conveyance by Road in Road Tankers and Tank Containers) Regulations 1981 These regulations, which take account of the hazards involved, require tankers and containers to be properly designed, of adequate strength, of good construction and suitable for the purpose. A tanker or tank container cannot be used for the carriage of a dangerous substance unless it has been initially examined and tested by a competent person and is periodically re-examined and tested thereafter.
Consignors of dangerous substances are required to ensure that vehicle operators are provided with accurate information about the hazards of such substances. Vehicle operators are required to hold third-party insurance, including cover for the additional risks from any dangerous substances carried.
There is no requirement on owners to consult or obtain approval from police authorities.
There are no plans to change these statutory requirements.