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<p>The Government has no proposals to introduce legislation restricting the use of
tyres on the basis of their age.</p><p> </p><p>Expert advice suggests that tyre ageing
is a complex issue where use and maintenance are significant factors rather than simply
chronological age.</p><p> </p><p>However, applying the precautionary principle, in
2013 the Department distributed guidance to bus and coach operators on how to establish
the age of a tyre and advised that tyres over 10-years of age should only be fitted
as part of a twin-wheel arrangement on a rear axle. Enforcement staff of the Driver
and Vehicle Standards Agency continue to advise operators if a non-compliance is identified.</p><p>
</p><p>The Department consulted with experts from the tyre industry in both the UK
and Europe and the free “Guide to Tyre Management on Heavy Vehicles” was produced
with the support of the tyre industry and Senior Traffic Commissioner Bell. In October
2016, copies of this guide were sent to every registered bus and coach operator in
the country ensuring that, no matter the size of fleet and irrespective of affiliation
to a trade association, these important messages reached as wide an audience as possible.</p><p>
</p><p>The Department for Transport has gone to the market twice to commission scientific
research regarding the effect of chronological age on tyre integrity. These approaches
have not been successful in establishing a robust programme of research and the Department
is considering how to proceed. Scientific evidence will inform any future policy decisions
and the Department will publish the outcome of the research once completed.</p>
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