HC Deb 30 April 1891 vol 352 cc1754-5
MR. ESSLEMONT (Aberdeen, E.)

I beg to ask the Lord Advocate in view of the fact that County Councils have no power to make bye-laws, as Road Authorities, requiring conveyances to exhibit lights during dark while driving, whether he will, on behalf of the Government, take steps to confer the necessary powers where, in the opinion of Local Authorities, such regulations are required for public safety?

MR. J. P. B. ROBERTSON

County Councils have the same powers to make bye-laws for the purposes set forth in Section 104 of the Roads Act of 1878 as County Road Trustees had before the passing of the Local Government Act. Until I saw the question of the hon. Member I was not aware of any desire that these powers should be in any way extended; but if representations in this direction are made, they will receive consideration.

DR. CAMERON

The right hon. Gentleman is, no doubt, aware that this is not the only case which has arisen.

MR. J. P. B. ROBERTSON

Each case will be considered on its merits, but I may add that the Secretary of an Association does not occupy any privileged position in bringing a case forward.