HC Deb 24 February 1937 vol 320 cc1999-2000
67. Sir Gifford Fox

asked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been called to an analysis of fatal accidents by the county surveyor of Oxford, in which he points out the avoidable causes, such as the absence of foot- paths, high hedges, blind junctions at cross roads, especially where there are steep down-grades, and the absence of proper cycle tracks; and what steps he is proposing to take to remedy these conditions on main roads which his Department is taking over and to encourage local authorities to provide the necessary precautions on roads under their control?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

My hon. Friend might like to read my recent circular to highway authorities upon the design and lay-out of roads.

Sir G. Fox

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the painting of a white line down the main roads of Oxfordshire has been a very great help to motorists, especially in fog and night time?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

Yes, Sir. Oxfordshire is an exemplary county.

Captain Strickland

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in many places the white line down the middle of the road has not been repainted for a considerable time? Will he emphasise the importance of the white line down the centre of the roads?