HC Deb 18 February 1931 vol 248 cc1240-2
49. Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLE

asked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the number of accidents to cyclists riding without rear lights or with inadequate reflectors, he will con- sider taking such steps as may be necessary to make the use of efficient rear lamps compulsory for bicycles?

Mr. HERBERT MORRISON

Cyclists are permitted by the Road Transport Lighting Act, 1927, to use red reflectors instead of red rear lamps. The point was fully debated at the time of the passing of the Act, and I do not feel justified in taking steps to secure the repeal of this provision.

Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this question has been raised on many occasions previously but that nothing effective has been done, and that very serious accidents have taken place all over the country in consequence of the neglect of the regulation?

Colonel ASHLEY

Is it not a fact that an adequate reflector gives absolute safety and that it is only when there is an inadequate reflector that there is danger?

Mr. MORRISON

I think that is true, but it has to be confessed that in a number of cases adequate reflectors are not provided. I have some sympathy with the hon. Member who has put the question, but, as Parliament decided this very controversial matter so recently as 1927, I do not think I can walk into trouble in 1931.

Colonel ASHLEY

Will the right hon. Gentleman urge his right hon. Friend the Home Secretary to ask the police to enforce the law?

Mr. MILLS

Is it not possible to indicate the desires of the Ministry of Transport to the manufacturers of bicycles, so that when they are placed on sale an adequate and efficient reflector is a part of the machine?

Sir W. BRASS

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that the regulations with regard to these reflectors force the public to carry efficient reflectors?

Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLE

Will the right hon. Gentleman judge by results, and the results are an increasing number of accidents?

Mr. MORRISON

The regulations are all right, but I think there is room for more energetic co-operation on the part of cyclists in this matter, and I am quite sure the police will do what they can to enforce the regulations.