§ 31. Sir R. THOMASasked the Minister of Transport what conclusions he has arrived at with regard to the obstruction to traffic in busy urban thoroughfares, caused by vehicles drawn up at the side of the road; and what measures he proposes to adopt?
§ Colonel ASHLEYSo far as my information goes, the powers possessed by the police authorities under the existing law are adequate for dealing with any such obstruction.
§ Sir R. THOMASIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware from his own observation that the nuisance referred to has become notorious?
§ Colonel ASHLEYIt is a matter within the discretion of the police.
§ Mr. CRAWFURDIs the right hon. Gentleman, from his own observation, satisfied that such obstruction does not exist?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI can only repeat that this is a matter within the discretion of the police, who have ample power to deal with it if they think that an obstruction is created.
§ Sir FRANK MEYERHas the Traffic Advisory Committee ever considered the possibility of prohibiting two vehicles stopping in a roadway opposite one another, and thereby causing one way traffic?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI do not think that that specific point has been considered, but I will look into it.
§ Sir R. THOMASIs the right hon. Gentleman again not sheltering himself behind some authority or other?
§ Colonel ASHLEYNo, I am not at all. I said what is a fact that the police have ample powers to deal with any obstruction that exists, and I have every confidence in them carrying out that duty.