§ Colonel YATEasked whether the measures to be taken by local authorities to secure the pruning of hedges, referred to in his circular to county councils of 19th September, 1908, have been duly given effect to; and, if not, whether he will consider 2054 the question of again calling the attention of county councils to the necessity of keeping the hedges on the roadsides at all cross-roads, junctions, and sharp corners cut low so as to minimise, as far as possible, the danger of accidents from motor-cars, bicycles, etc.?
§ Mr. BURNSThe suggestion as to the pruning of hedges at blind corners which was made in the circular mentioned has, I believe, had effect, and I have little doubt that the question which the hon. and gallant Member has asked will draw further attention to the desirability of doing what is possible to minimise the risk of accidents at corners. At present I do not think there would be much advantage in repeating my suggestion to the local authorities.
§ Mr. H. W. FORSTERHave the county councils any powers?
§ Mr. BURNSThe county councils have some powers in this matter, and I am glad to say, where they have such powers, they have reasonably exercised them. I am also to say that private owners have adopted the suggestions we made to them, and have improved the conditions very much.