Election threatens weights increase
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PROSPECTS of heavy lorry weights being increased before the elections are receding over the horizon.
Some claim they have had a "nod and a wink" that the decision has effectively been postponed for two years. And others not opposed to heavier lorries have warned that unless Mr Howell acts now then it will be politically too risky to do anything before the general election.
Chichester Tory MP Anthony Nelson said he would be "gravely disappointed" if Mr Howell tries to force through an increase before the elections.
Mr Nelson said he and others were not prepared to contemplate any increase in maximum weights, and that Mr Howell realised he could not get it through the Commons at the moment.
Faversham Tory MP Roger Moate said he was heartened by the attitude that "neutral" MPs were taking.
Shadow Transport Secretary Albert Booth told CM that he would be prepared to see heavier lorries if the whole of the Armitage Report was implemented. But he had had great difficulties in getting the Labour Party to agree with his view.