HC Deb 22 November 1927 vol 210 cc1601-3
58. Colonel DAY

asked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been called to the many accidents that have occurred during the last 12 months owing to the ineffective sign-posts that are placed on country roads and highways; whether he will take steps to advise all local authorities to provide bold sign-posts with effective lettering which can

the species of birds, together with the approximate amount of plumage, illegally imported and confiscated under the Importation of Plumage (Prohibition) Act, 1921, between 1st July and 30th September, 1927?

Mr. SAMUEL

As the answer is long, perhaps the hon. Member will allow me to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the answer:

more easily be read by cyclists and motorists approaching cross-roads; and whether he will consider the introduction of legislation to appoint a central authority to deal with and control this matter?

Colonel ASHLEY

I am not aware of the extent to which accidents may be attributable to ineffective sign-posts, but I do all in my power, by means of grants and otherwise, to encourage local authorities to erect signs conforming to patterns approved by my Department. I am sending the hon. Member a copy of the circular which was issued to all local authorities on the subject in 1921, the principles of which have been extensively adopted. The appointment of another Central Authority to deal with the matter appears to me unnecessary.

Colonel DAY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether it is a fact that no notification has been sent to local authorities since that circular was issued?

Colonel ASHLEY

No, not since 1921. The local authorities have the circular by them, and they are very extensively carrying out the requirements.

Colonel DAY

Does the right hon. Gentleman not think that on account of the great increase in motor traffic during the last six years further action should be taken?

Colonel ASHLEY

No, Sir, because I disagree with the hon. Member. I think that the erection of sign-posts up and down the country is going on remarkably well.