HC Deb 28 July 1908 vol 193 cc1233-4
MR. CATHCART WASON

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware of the speed of tramcars in such places as the Vauxhall Road, and the risk of life and limb by motors passing the rapidly-driven trams on the offside, any vehicle or pedestrian passing in front of a tram being liable to be run into or run over; and if he will give necessary instructions to the police to protect the public.

MR. GLADSTONE

In the Vauxhall Bridge Road, to which I presume my hon. friends refers, the Board of Trade regulations permit tramcars to proceed at a speed of twelve miles an hour, except when they are passing the end of Rochester Row. There is no rule of law with respect to traffic passing tramcars, and any general rule must be subject to exceptions according to the circumstances; but the common practice of passing a tramcar on the near side is usually the safest course. The police do their utmost to protect pedestrians crossing the road.

MR. MYER (Lambeth, N.)

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that tramcars in London frequently run at a speed of over twenty miles an hour? Will he not consider the advisability of making a rule that the drivers shall be supplied with an instrument which will show them the speed at which they are proceeding?

MR. GLADSTONE

That is a matter for the Board of Trade.

*MR. WATT

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the desirability of publishing anew the rules of the road, as it is not clearly understood on which side a vehicle should pass a tramcar going the same way.

MR. GLADSTONE

I will see if anything can be done.