HC Deb 25 January 1937 vol 319 cc557-8
76. Dr. Salter

asked the Minister of Transport how many persons have been killed, and how many injured, in Broad way, Wimbledon, since 1st January, 1936; how many of those persons were killed or injured while on a footwalk or refuge; and what steps he proposes to take to reduce the danger to pedestrians on this busy thoroughfare in view of his refusal to confirm an order for a speed limit of 20 miles per hour made by the town council on the road?

Captain Hudson

Two persons were killed and 37 were injured in street accidents which occurred in Wimbledon Broadway during the period 1st January, 1936, to 20th January, 1937. Two accidents caused the death of one person and in- juries to five persons who were on the footpath. No persons were killed or injured while on a refuge. My right hon. Friend has made a grant towards the cost of providing pedestrian crossings and guard rails in Wimbledon Broadway adjacent to the Town Hall and is in touch with the borough council as to the desirability of installing pedestrian-operated signals.

Mr. Morgan Jones

Ought not the Minister to review the number of miles per hour at which vehicles may pass on some of these very important roads in and around London?

Captain Hudson

We are constantly reviewing the position. In this case a special speed limit of 20 miles an hour was asked for, and we felt that other methods of dealing with the danger were better than that suggestion.

Mr. Jones

How long will the Government remain inactive in view of the murder of innocents that is going on in London?

Captain Hudson

I do not think the hon. Gentleman is accurate in saying the Government are inactive.

Mr. Ede

When are they going to be effectively active?

Captain Hudson

I think that they are.