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Dept of the Environment Transport and the Regions

Answer

Mr. Mitchell: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when EU legislation relating to the use of lorries weighing up to 44 tonnes came into force; and what studies have been undertaken by his Department into the effect of such legislation on the transport of freight by rail. [116860] Mr. Hill: My right hon. and noble Friend the Minister for Transport recently announced the Government's decision to set a target date of 1 January 2001 for raising the maximum general lorry weight limit to 44 tonnes for lorries with six axles, a maximum drive axle weight of 10.5 tonnes and Euro II or better engines. This is not connected with EU legislation. The decision follows the publication of an interim report by the Commission for Integrated Transport (CfIT) on permitting the general use of 44 tonne lorries. CfIT commissioned independent work from Professor Alan McKinnon of Heriot-Watt University to assess the environmental effects including the possible effects on rail freight. This work showed a clear net environmental gain from allowing 44 tonne lorries. The Integrated Transport White Paper set out our aim to establish an integrated, sustainable freight distribution system to support economic growth and to bring social and environmental benefits. To that end we are keen to support rail freight where it is practicable and good value for money. We are equally keen on improvements to efficiency in other modes, including road transport, where these meet the same ends. The Government accept CfIT's view that allowing 44 tonne lorries for general use could have a negative effect upon rail freight traffic, both existing and predicted. The shadow SRA are considering proposals for rail freight and their strategy will include proposals to support rail freight. The CfIT report is available on the Internet at www.cfit.gov.uk

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

347 c427W; 116860

Session

1999-00

Subjects

Freight Large goods vehicles Railways Roads Transport Weight limits

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk