HC Deb 16 November 1926 vol 199 cc1674-5
39. Major Sir RICHARD BARNETT

asked the Minister of Transport what steps have been taken to give effect to the recommendation of the Departmental Committee on the taxation and regulation of road vehicles that the question of the provision of guards in front of motor vehicles should be reconsidered as soon as satisfactory devices appear to be available?

Colonel ASHLEY

A number of devices have been brought to my notice from time to time, and demonstrations have been given. Most of these devices, however, introduce fresh elements of danger, and I am advised that no completely satisfactory device has yet been put forward.

Sir R. BARNETT

Is my right hon. Friend aware that very large numbers of school children are killed or maimed every year in the streets of London alone, and, pending the discovery of an absolutely satisfactory device, could not some simple plan for safeguarding children be adopted, in order that this appalling mortality may be prevented?

Colonel ASHLEY

The trouble is that there is no simple plan which one can adopt. Most of these devices have considerable dangers, though they do away with other dangers.

Sir HARRY BRITTAIN

Is it not a fact that drivers are considerably more reckless in those countries where the steel guards are carried?

Sir R. BARNETT

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there was a case, three months ago, of a child being killed by a car going at only two miles an hour? A simple guard would have saved that child's life.

Colonel ASHLEY

But the vehicle does not always move at two miles an hour, and when moving faster it might be more dangerous with such a contrivance than without one.