Manufacturer licensing could make roads safer



ABU DHABI // A proposed law that would require manufacturers to obtain licences to transfer goods across the Emirates was discussed yesterday by the FNC.

Under the law, unlicensed companies would risk monetary fines and possible jail sentences.

The suggested legislation is intended to preserve the nation's roads and improve their safety. Members said frequent use by lorries damaged the country's roads. They also suggested that limiting the number of heavier vehicles could reduce the number of car accidents.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak, the Minister of Public Works, noted the FNC's input. To come into force, the law would need to be approved by the President.

Skewed figures

In the village of Mevagissey in southwest England the housing stock has doubled in the last century while the number of residents is half the historic high. The village's Neighbourhood Development Plan states that 26% of homes are holiday retreats. Prices are high, averaging around £300,000, £50,000 more than the Cornish average of £250,000. The local average wage is £15,458.