§ 54. Colonel Goodmanasked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been called to the danger arising at night to users of the roads from the parking at the roadside of motor lorries whilst the drivers are taking their compulsory rest period; and whether he proposes to take steps to minimise it?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaI am aware that accidents sometimes result from this practice. If a driver leaves a lorry or other vehicle on the road in such circumstances as to cause obstruction or as to be likely to cause danger, proceedings can be taken against him under the existing law.
§ Colonel GoodmanIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that along the Portsmouth road he will find at least a dozen of these lorries when the men are taking their rest? Will he not inquire into the matter and so prevent accidents which are always occurring?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaI have every sympathy with the point that the hon. and gallant Gentleman puts. It is, of course, for the police to take proceedings wherever it may be appropriate.
§ Mr. EdeWill the right hon. Gentleman consider making a regulation whereby the tailboard or some part of the rear of the vehicle shall be painted white, 334 or some light colour, which will be shown up by the headlights of approaching vehicles?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaI will reconsider that matter. I have already considered it. There are certain inconveniences attaching to the practice. If the board gets dirty, the original object is not fulfilled.
§ Captain Sir William BrassWill the right hon. Gentleman consider making it compulsory for these vehicles to have double lights, as on the Continent, kept alight when they are stationary on the road at night?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaI will consider that.