HC Deb 23 June 1925 vol 185 cc1286-7
38. Viscount SANDON

asked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been called to the practice carried out elsewhere as to leaving roads in a rough condition at points of danger, or, alternatively, of creating depressions in the surface at such points to secure reduction of speed; and whether he proposes to experiment in this direction?

Colonel ASHLEY

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, and the second part in the negative.

42. Mr. CLARRY

asked the Minister of Transport if his attention has been called to the condition of the road surface of Bridge Street, Westminster, abutting on Palace Yard; and if he will state the material used in surfacing this portion of the street, and the date that the work was carried out?

Colonel ASHLEY

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The surface generally is in fair condition, though minor repairs are required in a few places. The material is asphalte on concrete, and the work was carried out in 1917 and 1918

Mr. CLARRY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what proportion of bitument was included in the mixture?

Colonel ASHLEY

I cannot carry my memory back to 1918.

44. Sir HARRY BRITTAIN

asked the Minister of Transport whether research is bringing forth any new material to render the surface of the new trunk roads less dangerous after a shower of rain?

Colonel ASHLEY

I have every reason to hope that the process of surface dressing and gritting which is being applied to slippery road surfaces will effect the desired purpose. Should the Roads Improvement Bill become law, it is my intention to pursue further experiments.

Sir H. BRITTAIN

Seeing that we have now the very best roads in the world, will the right hon. Gentleman expedite the removal of the only remaining defect, the slipperiness of the trunk roads which are being provided.

Colonel ASHLEY

We are doing that.