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Weights plan slammed
Page 6
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• Government proposals to take a small step towards harmonisation on lorry weights have been strongly criticised by Shadow Transport Secretary Bob Hughes.
Following its discussions with the RHA and FTA, the Department of Transport has issued a consultation document which suggests amendments to the current C&U regulations. The document proposes increasing the maximum gross weight of two-axle rigids, with a minimum wheelbase of 3m, from 16.26 tonnes to 17 tonnes.
The DTp also wants the maximum drive axle weight for all vehicles to become 10.5 tonnes — at present only 38-tonners are allowed a 10.5-tonne drive axle.
According to the DTp, the proposals would bring the maximum gross weight for rigid goods vehicles into line with other Community member states in northern Europe, and would "contribute to the Government's objective of harmonising on technical standards in the transport field".
The increase of 740kg in permitted gross weight "would more than cover the additional weight of sideguards and other safety equipment proposed for vehicles. Any increase in payload would offer the opportunity for more efficient use of vehicles".
Shadow Transport Secretary Bob Hughes, however, has angrily attacked the proposals saying that at first sight they were a betrayal of what Transport Secretary John Moore had said in the House of Commons.
When changes had been agreed in the EEC, Moore had given "an absolute assurance" that there would be no increase in lorry or axle weights in Britain. He gave the impression that he had obtained a permanent veto, claims Hughes.
"His words are not worth the paper they are written on," he added angrily.
Comments on the proposals have to be in before December 1 this year. If the reaction is favourable, the DTp could make changes to the current C&U without requiring Parliamentary approval.