Written Answers
Tuesday, 20th May 1997.
"Manifesto For Change"
asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether they have studied the
Manifesto for Change published by Streetlife, and what are their responses to it.
The Government have not studied this document. I look forward to seeing a copy of it.
Mobile Telephones: Use While Driving
asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether following the recent report from the University of Toronto, and in line with the advice given by the
Highway Code, they will bring in legislation to ban the use of telephones while driving.
I am considering the need for legislation, but recent court cases suggest that the police can successfully prosecute the offences of dangerous driving, careless driving or failure to exercise proper control of a vehicle that may arise from the use of a mobile phone while driving. We are also considering strengthening the advice in the Highway Code on the use of telephones while driving in the light of the Canadian research.
Local Government And Rating Act 1997: Entry Into Force
asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether they propose to bring into force Parts and III of the Local Government and Rating Act 1997; and, if so, when.
The abolition of non-domestic rates on sporting rights, introduced by Part I of the Local Government and Rating Act, was brought into force on 1 April 1997. Decisions on the other provisions of Part I will be announced in due course. Part III comes into force on 19 May 1997 by commencement order SI no. 1997/1097.
Radioactive Waste: Disposal
asked Her Majesty's Government:What are their plans for the permanent disposal of dangerous nuclear waste.
The Government are considering the implication for radioactive waste management policy of the former Secretary of State's dismissal of United Kingdom Nirex Ltd.'s appeal against refusal of planning permission for a Rock Characterisation Facility at Sellafield.