HC Deb 04 July 1934 vol 291 cc1888-9
10. Viscountess ASTOR

asked the Minister of Transport how many of the fatal accidents in the latest year for which he has records occurred in consequence of the riding of push bicycles in towns?

The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Mr. Hore-Belisha)

Separate figures for towns are not available, but the report on fatal road accidents during the year 1933 shows that in that year 874 pedal cyclists were involved in fatal accidents which occurred in built-up areas.

Mr. HOLFORD KNIGHT

Do the figures show whether the pedal cyclists were the aggressors or the victims?

Viscountess ASTOR

Is it not in some cases almost impossible to avoid these pedal cyclists? I ask the question in order to ascertain whether some system could be devised to prohibit pedal cycling in very crowded areas.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

In 485 cases of fatal accidents in built-up areas the sole or main cause of the accident was the pedal cyclist. In answer to the Noble Lady, may I say that I quite appreciate her humanity of view.

Sir WILFRID SUGDEN

Is it not a fact that when the discipline which a motorist should have is properly applied pedal cyclists and pedestrians will have as fair use of the road as motorists?

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Is it not time that separate roads were constructed for cyclists?