§ 38. Mr. LEACHasked the. Minister of Transport on what grounds he proposes to set aside the wishes of the Bradford City Council in de-restricting lengths of road within its jurisdiction, as recently announced by him; and is he prepared to reconsider such decision?
Captain HUDSONThe facts of each case were carefully considered, after a local inquiry, and a conclusion reached on the individual merits. My right hon. Friend's decision is open to review, after a reasonable time, upon the submission of fresh evidence.
§ Mr. LEACHDoes the Parliamentary Secretary know that not only the city council, the watch committee and the chief constable but other authorities in Bradford who have any responsibility for the control of the roads, are against this de-restriction order, and in view of his tragic answer to question No. 36, would it not be better for him to reconsider his decision?
Captain HUDSONThere were 15 roads under consideration at this inquiry, of which eight were recommended to be de-restricted. As the House knows, it is the Minister's responsibility, not that of the local authority, and having considered the report of the inquiry the Minister came to his conclusion, which, as I hive stated, is open to review after a reasonable time, and if fresh evidence shows that the road should not be derestricted.
§ Mr. LEACHWhat kind of fresh evidence is it possible to get after an inquiry which has been so complete? The Minister knows that the roads are in built-up areas?
Captain HUDSONThe Minister has to carry out the Act of Parliament, which lays down that an inquiry should take place, and he is naturally guided by the results of the inquiry.
§ Sir JOSEPH LAMBWhat number of fatal accidents are necessary to justify a review?
§ Mr. HOLDSWORTHIs the Parliamentary Secretary aware that some other hon. Members for Bradford are concerned about this, because some of these roads are not in built-up areas?