HC Deb 18 July 1923 vol 166 cc2307-9
60. Mr. EDE

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport if he is aware that a number of fatal accidents have taken place at the cross roads on the Reigate road and Monger's Lane, Ewell; that the Epsom urban council and the Epsom rural council have collaborated on a scheme to create an alternative route between Epsom and Croydon; whether this joint scheme has been submitted to the Ministry; and what is the present attitude of his Department towards it?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)

I am aware of a fatal accident which took place at this crossroads in September, 1922, and of two non-fatal accidents which occurred this summer. These have been the subject of investigation by an officer of my Department, who has also been in touch with the local authorities concerned regarding the construction of a by-pass road. As soon as this project is submitted in a definite form to my Department, it shall receive the fullest consideration.

Mr. EDE

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that I myself, as a member of one of these authorities, went on a deputation to his Ministry some six months ago and we are still not sure what is the attitude of the Ministry towards the scheme?

Sir H. BRITTAIN

Is it not the fact that there have been many serious accidents at this particular cross-roads; and while the Ministry is making up its mind, would not a couple of mirrors go a long way towards reducing the danger?

Colonel ASHLEY

My hon. Friend is misinformed. It is not a question of the Ministry making up its mind, but of the local authorities making up their minds. When the local authorities do so and submit a really definite scheme, it will receive a full and immediate consideration.

Sir H. BRITTAIN

Will the Minister make that suggestion to them while they are making up their minds?

Mr. EDE

May I have an answer to my supplementary question? Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the local authorities have very firmly made up their minds and are wondering whether the Ministry has a mind to make up?

Colonel ASHLEY

Then will the local authorities communicate their decision to us?