§ Mr. David AtkinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to privatise the escorting of wide and heavy loads on motorways by the police; and if he will make a statement. [20470]
§ Mr. MacleanI have been asked to reply.
The Home Office and the Association of Chief Police Officers are examining the idea that on motorways and linking dual carriageways the escorting of abnormal loads which are between 4.3 and 4.6 m wide and 80 to 150 tonnes in weight might be carried out by suitably trained and qualified private escorts. The issue has recently been examined by consultants and their report is under consideration. The road haulage industry associations concerned with abnormal loads will be invited to comment on the report.