§ *MR. CATHCART WASON (Orkney and Shetland)I beg to ask the Secretary to the Local Government Board whether, in view of the number of accidents caused by motors being driven at a rapid pace through towns and villages, favourable consideration will be given in the future to applications from local authorities for a reduction of speed limit within their jurisdiction?
§ MR. JOHN BURNSMy best consideration is always given to applications under the Motor Car Act, 1903, for a reduction of speed limits, but I cannot say beforehand what course I shall feel 93 justified in taking with regard to particular applications which may in future be made to me.
§ *MR. CATHCART WASONasked if the right hon. Gentleman was aware that the Motor Car Act, 1903, was only passed on the condition that the local authorities should have power to restrict speed, and that the Local Government Board should only act where regulations were excessive and unreasonable.
§ *MR. JOHN BURNSAs regards the nineteen applications under the Act received since 1st January, 1906, in which a decision has been given, orders have been issued or promised in fifteen of them. I think the Local Government Board is to be commended for its action in the matter.