§ 62. Colonel DAYasked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the danger to road users, owing to the lack of uniformity of automatic signalling and warning devices, he will consider legislation with a view to making the use of a standardised signalling device compulsory anon all blind vehicles, such as tramcars, motor omnibuses, motor coaches, hooded vans, and enclosed cars?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThe question of signalling devices was considered by the Departmental Committee on the Taxation and Regulation of Road Vehicles, which recommended that the signals given by drivers should be as few as possible and from a uniform position, but came to the conclusion that signals by the human hand and arm were sufficient and satisfactory. Any attempt to prescribe a form of mechanical signalling device would, obviously, give rise to numerous difficulties.
Sir F. HALLMay I ask whether the Departmental Committee has come to any decision yet as to rear lights on bicycles?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThat is another matter, which does not arise out of this question.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINWill the right hon. Gentleman say why all these people should be put to the expense of automatic signals?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI think my hon. Friend will see that I have come to the same conclusion.
§ 66. Colonel DAYasked the Minister of Transport if his attention has been drawn to the Murray signalling device as a method of denoting to motorists by means of reflected lights from their vehicles dangerous obstructions on the highway; and whether the device has been tested by his Department?
§ Colonel ASHLEYOne of the technical officers of my Department attended a demonstration of the "Murray Signs," which, I presume, are those referred to in the hon. and gallant Member's question.