HC Deb 05 May 1925 vol 183 cc736-7
22 Mr.ROBERTMORRISON

asked the Minister of Transport (1) if he is aware of the difficulty and delay already caused to the inhabitants of North London in getting to and from their employment; and, in view of the restrictions placed by the new Traffic Order upon all main thoroughfares leading northwards from Finsbury Park, what steps he proposes to take to meet the increased difficulty and delay which will be caused to the travelling public in these areas;

(2) in view of the fact that the list of restricted roads issued by the Ministry under the London Traffic Act in February last included Seven Sisters Road (Fonthill Road to Finsbury Park Gates), that an appeal was lodged and upheld against this restriction, and that as a consequence this thoroughfare was deleted from the list, if he will explain what are the altered conditions which have caused it to be again scheduled for restriction.

Colonel ASHLEY

I am aware of the difficulty and delay experienced by the inhabitants of North London in getting to and from their employment, and I have asked the London Traffic Advisory Committee to inquire into the question of travelling facilities northwards from Finsbury Park. No Order has yet been made declaring any part of Seven Sisters Road or any thoroughfares northwards from Finsbury Park to be restricted streets under Section 7 of the London Traffic Act. This matter is, however, being considered by the Advisory Committee, to whom I am sending a copy of the hon. Member's questions and this reply.

Mr. MORRISON

Will the right. hon. Gentleman bring to the notice of the Advisory Committee the undesirability of placing any further restrictions upon main thoroughfares in North London until the Committee which he has appointed has held an inquiry?

Colonel ASHLEY

I will consider that.

Mr. HERBERT WILLIAMS

When does the right hon. Gentleman expect the Committee to issue a report?

Colonel ASHLEY

It must be some time. Not only has the London Traffic Advisory Committee to investigate this very important subject, but it has also to ascertain the Eastern and the South-Eastern position. They are all interdependent and it must take some time.

Mr.HURD

Has the right hon. Gentleman yet prevailed on the Committee to hear the interests concerned on both sides in this matter?

Colonel ASHLEY

There is no necessity to prevail upon them. They are quite willing to hear any relevant evidence, that may be forthcoming.