HC Deb 14 August 1913 vol 56 cc2646-7
52. Captain MURRAY

asked the President of the. Local Government Board whether he is aware of the extent to which the orders prohibiting the use of cut-outs are disregarded by the motoring and motor-cycling public; and, having regard to the contravention of regulations issued by him, whether he will take steps to ensure obedience to the regulations?

The PRESIDENT of the LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD (Mr. Burns)

I have received a few complaints that the regulation referred to is being disregarded. As I have stated in answer to a previous question, the enforcement of the regulation rests with the police authorities, and my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary, as I think my hon. and gallant Friend is aware, has addressed a circular to them on the subject.

53. Captain MURRAY

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether he is aware that the number and variety of different sounds emitted by warning instruments on motor vehicles in London is constantly increasing; and whether he can yet hold out hopes of such regulations as will ensure greater uniformity of sound?

Mr. BURNS

I am afraid at the present moment I cannot do more than refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the answer I gave to a somewhat similar question on 27th May last, but he may rest assured that I shall be happy to do anything I can to lessen the amount of needless noise caused by motor ears.

Captain MURRAY

Does the right hon. Gentleman really consider it necessary to the safety of the public that these noises should be reintroduced in London?

Mr. BURNS

No, I do not think such noises are either essential for the public or the people who ride in motor cars, and if it had been possible by regulation, without legislation, to deal with it I should have done so; but I am looking forward to a favourable opportunity of considering and perhaps acting in the matter.