§ Mr. RathboneTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what administrative action has so far been taken to implement the proposals contained in the White Paper "The Road User and the Law"; what remains to be done; and what timetable has been set to complete such actions.
§ Mr. AtkinsThe extended high-risk offenders scheme will operate from 1 June. We are studying the comments made in response to consultation on retesting, prohibition and enforcement technology which cover both the legislative framework and detailed administrative arrangements of the proposals. We look forward to receiving comments on our papers on drivers' physical fitness and rehabilitation of drink-drivers by 12 June and 29 June respectively. Copies of all the consultation papers have been placed in the Library.
Discussions are continuing with the police and other interested organisations on the use of warnings, the operation of vehicle defect rectification schemes and the use of the Bail Acts. We aim to press ahead as speedily as possible to complete the development of our proposals arising from the North report.
§ Mr. RathboneTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to his reply to the hon. Member for Cheadle (Mr. Day),Official Report, 7 March, column 665, if he is now in a position to make a further statement on his intention to bring forward legislation to implement the proposals in "The Road User and the Law".
§ Mr. FrenchTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to introduce legislation based on the contents of "The Road User and the Law".
§ Mr. AtkinsThe proposals contained in the White Paper, "The Road User and the Law", are an important part of our strategy to achieve a one third reduction in road accident casualties by the year 2000 and I intend to introduce legislation at the earliest opportunity.