HC Deb 05 March 1930 vol 236 cc430-1
63. Sir WALTER GREAVES-LORD

asked the Minister of Transport whether he has now any further information with regard to any proposed action by the East Sussex County Council and the New-haven-Seaford road; and whether he proposes to take any steps to ensure that human life and traffic are adequately protected along the said road?

Mr. HERBERT MORRISON

I am informed that a Sub-Committee has this matter under discussion, and will report to the county council in due course. Meanwhile, I am unable to determine what steps, if any, can be taken by my Department.

Sir W. GREAVES-LORD

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the East Essex County Council has been repeatedly warned that there is danger to life owing to the condition of this road; that a life was lost a few months ago owing to its condition; and that the Sub-Committee have reported that they can make no suggestion, because the local councils want a proper road made, and the county council only want to put up wood palings?

Mr. MORRISON

Representations to that effect have been made to me in very strong terms, and they are one of the reasons why I have raised the question with the county council concerned. The hon. and learned Member may be sure that I will do whatever I can to help in the matter.

Rear-Admiral BEAMISH

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that very large sums of money are being spent in East Sussex on roads which at the present time are not at all dangerous, and, as this road is clearly a dangerous one according to my own personal experience, could he see his way to make a personal inspection of it?

Mr. MORRISON

That must depend on the rate of progress with the Road Traffic Bill. The House will appreciate that the matter is largely within the jurisdiction of the local authority, which I do not control to that extent.