DoE considering metric plates
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• A proposal that the weights shown on manufacturers' plates should appear in metric figures as well as in tons is being considered by the Secretary of State for the Environment.
The proposal, if passed, will involve an amendment to paragraph 2 of part III of Schedule 2 of the Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1969 in the following terms: "Weights shall be shown in tons and decimals thereof, but where any such weight is shown on a plate first affixed to a vehicle on or after February 1 19 72 or any new weight is first shown on a plate on or after that date by virtue of the proviso to the last preceding paragraph the equivalent weight in kilograms of any such weight shall also be shown."
The DoE, in giving an explanation of the reasons for the proposal, has said that the industry is now moving towards greater use of the metric system, including the adoption of tariffs referring to weights expressed in metric units. Although the plating and
testing scheme provides for the "Ministry" plate to show weights in tons with the kilogram equivalent, that plate is not fitted until up to a year after a vehicle has come into use and in the interim vehicles are equipped only with the manufacturer's plate.
The intention is that kilogram equivalents should be shown to the nearest whole numbers. It is desirable, the DoE says, that the permitted weights in metric terms should be shown on vehicles from as early a date as practicable and it is proposed therefore that this amendment should take effect as from February 11972.
Closing date for comments on the proposal from interested parties is June 30 1971.
Dove Group's show
• Following the announcement of the new range of Leyland Redline Boxers, the Dove Group, in conjunction with British Leyland, is to hold a commercial vehicle show week at its Croydon Airport depot. The show, from June 22 to June 26, will feature demonstration vehicles from the Terrier, Boxer and Mastiff ranges, while bodywork will be exhibited by national builders.
• transport Development Group Ltd moved on May 22 from Bucklersbury House to new offices at Kingsgate House, 66-74 Victoria Street, London SW1 E 6SR (tel: 01-828 5051).