§ 57. Mr. HARRISasked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that in those continental countries where signalling is done by means of mechanical direction indicators one type, namely, the electrically illuminated and either mechanically or electrically operated semaphore arm type, is in vogue; and will he embody in the highway code the recognition and recommendation of this type, so as to avoid the use of a multiplicity of direction indicators?
§ Mr. HERBERT MORRISONI am aware that the type of direction indicator referred to in the first part of the question is extensively used. As regards the second part of the question, I do not think that the adoption of a particular type of mechanical or electrical signal could appropriately be recommended in the Highway Code.
§ 58. Mr. HARRISasked the Minister of Transport whether, since in Section 5 (iii) (e) of the Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) Regulations, 1930, he has made the fitting of direction indicators compulsory on motor vehicles driven by certain classes of disabled, or partially disabled, drivers, he will now state whether direction indicators may be used by a driver who is not disabled and therefore not subject to the examination laid down in the Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) Regulations, 1930?
§ Mr. HERBERT MORRISONI see no reason why the driver of any motor vehicle should not use a suitable direction indicator if he wishes to do so.
§ Mr. HARRISAm I to understand that the mechanical indicator will be taken as a substitute for the regulations about the use of hands?
§ Mr. MORRISONThat depends on the circumstances of the case, and it is for the courts to determine.
§ Mr. HARRISWill the Minister consider drafting a regulation to avoid the necessity of going to a court of law for a decision?
§ Mr. MORRISONThe Highway Code is not a document for the breach of which penalties enure. Trouble only arises when an accident happens, and then it may be pleaded one way or the other in civil or criminal proceedings. I do not think it would be wise to lay down a doctrine on the point raised by the hon. Member.