The pilot is aimed at targeting Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) on international journeys under the enhanced working agreement between VOSA (Vehicle and Operator Services Agency) and the Highways Agency.

Dr Ladyman was greeted by Stephen Tetlow, Chief Executive of VOSA, and Ginny Clarke, Highways Agency's Chief Highway Engineer, before speaking to the waiting press. The Minister took the opportunity of boarding a stopper vehicle, which allowed him to see firsthand how vehicles are chosen and pulled into the checksite. He also  watched as the vehicles were examined for potential defects and drivers hours offences.

The results emphasised just why this pilot is so important. Of the 63 vehicles that were stopped, 41 received mechanical prohibitions, 23 of which were delayed while 18 were immediate (brakes and tyres were most at fault). Also, 44 drivers were checked, with 12 receiving drivers' hours prohibitions, while two further prohibitions were issued for other offences.

The South East was identified by the Highways Agency as a starting point as this is where such traffic is greatest and thus associated problems, such as road safety, road wear, competition and congestion issues, are most acute.

Stephen Tetlow, Chief Executive of VOSA, said: "VOSA is delighted to be working alongside the Highways Agency in order to achieve improved road safety. Our new targeted enforcement tools enable us to identify and remove dangerous lorries from the UK's road network more effectively. This pilot will also allow details of vehicles on international journeys to be added to our database, which will lead to improved targeting of those operators who continue to flout the regulations."

Ginny Clarke, Highways Agency's Chief Highway Engineer, concurred, adding: "The Highways Agency is working in partnership with VOSA to gain the benefits for all road users in removing dangerous lorries from the network. As a result of this action, we hope to see a reduction in incident related congestion, a reduction in the deaths and serious injuries and a safer network for everyone."