Chalker slams over loading
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TRANSPORT MINISTER Lynda Chalker had made it clear that she regards even five per cent overloading on lorries, unacceptable.
At transport question time in the Commons this week, she told MPs that a warning was suitable for a minor infringement, but did not call even five per cent minor. "I have made it absolutely clear that effective enforcement must be carried out by the Traffic Commissioners," she said.
Mrs Chalker said Licensing Authorities had been urged to make use of the new weighbridges and give extra enforcement staff the most effective enforcement possible.
She denied claims by Opposition Spokesman Peter Snape that heavy goods vehicles were crossing the country with loads of up to 42 tonnes.
Her apparent rebuke for civil servants who authorised a five per cent margin for overloads has caused annoyance in Whitehall.