Government won't act
Page 6
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THE GOVERNMENT this week politely refused to take any further steps to block the night and weekend London lorry ban, due to start on December 16, and firms now look free to negotiate with the Greater London Council.
It will wait instead for the Court of Appeal's ruling, expected in the week commencing October 7, on Transport Secretary Nicholas Ridley's attempt to stop the ban on the grounds. that it is being put into effect without a public inquiry. His appeal follows last month's defeat by the GLC in the High Court.
Representatives from the Road Haulage Association, the Freight Transport Association, the Confederation of British Industry and other bodies had a lengthy meeting with Transport Minister Lynda Chalker on Tuesday, but came away virtually empty handed.
They wanted Mr Ridley to use immediately what they believe are extensive reserve powers under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 to in tervene and revoke the ban. These powers are different from those at present awaiting judgment in the Court of Appeal.
There is no way industry can wait until October or November to find out whether the ban is to go ahead. "Thousands of companies need to know now," said FTA planning officer Don McIntyre.
Mrs Chalker replied that the DTp was not certain that Mr Ridley has the power in law to block,the ban. All she
No joy from the Minister. The FTA 's Carry Turvey and Don McIntyre (left) outside the DTp on "I'uesday.
would agree to was that DTp and industry lawyers would give the matter further consideration.
Both the RI-IA and FTA are now modifying their advice to members, and say that firms should now consider applying for permits. FTA director general Garry Turvey pledged every effort to make sure that "this totally ridiculous restriction" never happens.