Q Several hgv drivers have recently been advised by the police

24th September 1976, Page 254

24th September 1976

Page 254

Page 254, 24th September 1976 — Q Several hgv drivers have recently been advised by the police

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that it is illegal to display a black and white number plate on a semi-trailer if the attached unit is displaying reflective number plates. What is correct?

ARegulation 5B of the Road Vehicles (Registration and Licensing) (Amendment) Regulation 1972 stipulates that vehicles first registered on or after January 1, 197.3, shall have registration marks exhibited on a plate which is constructed of reflex reflecting material complying with BS AU 145a. On the front of the vehicle, the mark must take the form of black letters and figures on a white background. On the rear it must show black letters and figures on a yellow background.

Later in the same Regulation, however, it says that "nothing in this paragraph shall apply to the registration mark required to be fixed on a vehicle when that mark, in accordance with the provisions of Regulation 22 is displayed on the back of a trailer attached to that vehicle". (The Regulation 22 referred to is Regulation 22 of the Road Vehicles (Registration and Licensing) Regulations 1971).

Superficially, it would seem that the number plate on the trailer need not be of reflex reflective material.

However, we are informed by the DoE that this was not really the intention and that more specific legislation is being formulated.

In that case, it would be prudent to provide reflex reflective number plates for the rear of trailers. This would not only make provision for that time when new Regulations make the position clearer, but would also save any argument or expensive court cases in the interim.