N.Z. BAN ON LEFT-HAND DRIVE MOTOR VEHICLES

Grey River Argus, 25 March 1948, Page 5

N.Z. BAN ON LEFT-HAND DRIVE MOTOR VEHICLES

P.A. WELLINGTON, March 24. No permits will 'be granted for operating left-hand drive motor vehicles on the main highways or in the cities and towns, according to a ruling given to the North and South Island Motor Unions by the Commissioner of Transport, Mr G. L. Laurenson.

This was in answer to representations made on behalf of the Union’s North Island President, Mr R. W. Roydhouse and the vice-president, Mr F. G. Farrell, with reference to the recent importation into New Zealand of left-hand drive vehicles, which are considered by the unions as a potential danger to ordinary motoring traffic. The Commissioner told the deputation, however, that it was proposed to grant permits for the use of such vehicles in sawmills, and foi' coalmining, or for similar off-road ei/ployment. In other instances, where the merits of the case warranted it, temporary permits for the qse of lefthand drive vehicles would be granted. Tourists would also be provided for. In view of the ruling, the deputation agreed that, no further action was required, though it was felt that the public should bear the*’’ ’Situation in mind if, considering the possible purchase of left-hand drive vehicles.