Lorries and Chars-a-Banc.

Oral Answers to Questions — Transport. – in the House of Commons at on 9 December 1920.

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Photo of Sir William Seager Sir William Seager , Cardiff East

98.

asked the Ministry of Transport whether there is a legal maximum width and length for motor lorries and chars-à-banc; and, if not, will he introduce legislation to limit the width and length of such vehicles so as to eliminate the possible holding up of traffic and the many dangers to which all users of roads are now exposed by reason of the unwieldly size of these vehicles?

Photo of Mr Arthur Neal Mr Arthur Neal , Sheffield, Hillsborough

The only general Regulations with regard to the size and weight of heavy motor cars are those contained in the Motor Car (Use and Construction) Order, 1904, and the Heavy Motor Car Order, 1904, to which I would refer my hon. Friend. Under these Orders the width of a heavy motor car cannot exceed 7 ft. 6 ins., but there is at present no restriction as to the length. As my hon. Friend is aware, the whole question of the regulation of road vehicles is at present under consideration, and I do not think it desirable to deal with it piecemeal.

Photo of Mr Noel Billing Mr Noel Billing , Hertford

Is the hon Gentleman aware that a great many country roads barely exceed seven foot six, and will he bear that in mind having regard to the fact that frequently motor and other traffic is held up in the country on account of these big chars-a-banc?

Photo of Mr Arthur Neal Mr Arthur Neal , Sheffield, Hillsborough

That matter is dealt with under the Bill the hon. Member intimated that he had not read when he opposed the Second Reading.

Photo of Mr Charles Stanton Mr Charles Stanton , Merthyr Tydfil Aberdare

Is the hon. Gentle, man aware that poor people cannot afford ordinary motor cars and have to take advantage of the other thing, and some convenience should surely be granted to make it possible for them to ride in their own car?

Photo of Mr Arthur Neal Mr Arthur Neal , Sheffield, Hillsborough

An opportunity of discussing the whole matter will arise on the Committee stage of the Roads Bill tomorrow.

Second Reading

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