HC Deb 13 June 1934 vol 290 cc1681-2
19 and 20. Mr. JOHN RUTHERFORD

asked the Minister of Transport (1) the total number of hump-backed bridges there are on main roads in this country; before how many there are warning signs; and whether any systematic reduction of these bridges is being made; and

(2) how many hump-backed bridges there are on Watling Street?

The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Mr. Oliver Stanley)

I am not in possession of the information the hon. Member desires and much time and labour would be entailed in obtaining it, but I have authorised a special warning sign for hump-backed bridges and it is extensively used. Highway authorities are reconstructing bridges of this type or improving their approaches, as opportunity offers and their resources permit, and I am prepared to give consideration to all applications for grants for this purpose which may be submitted to me.

Mr. PIKE

Can the Minister hurry on the scheme for the elimination of these bridges?

Mr. STANLEY

I have just said that I am prepared to consider all applications.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Are not these bridges a useful check to speed?

Mr. STANLEY

So it would be if there were no bridges at all.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

Is the Minister prepared to reconsider the position regarding the Forth Bridge?

Mr. STANLEY

My answer was that I was prepared to give consideration to all applications for grants for this purpose—that is the reconstruction of humpbacked bridges.