HC Deb 17 November 1937 vol 329 cc386-7
41. Mr. Lyons

asked the Minister of Transport whether he can yet state what steps he proposes to take on the recommendations contained in the final report of the Departmental Committee on Street Lighting?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport (Captain Austin Hudson)

My right hon. Friend has already brought the recommendations of the report to the notice of all local authorities concerned by means of a circular letter, dated 2nd November, of which I am sending my hon. Friend a copy.

Mr. Lyons

What steps are being taken by the local authorities to establish road lighting in main thoroughfares leading to the various towns?

Captain Hudson

I can only say that I hope that, after study of the circular and of the report, they will put the recommendations into effect.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Has the hon. Gentleman's right hon. Friend any powers in this matter, other than to bring the suggestions in the report to the notice of the local authorities?

Captain Hudson

We have certain powers with regard to trunk roads, but otherwise we have to rely on our powers of persuasion.

53. Mr. Lyons

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will indicate where and to what extent any illumination of trunk roads has been undertaken or arranged for, respectively, under the provisions of Section 6 (4) of the Trunk Roads Act, 1936?

Captain Hudson

My right hon. Friend is not yet ready to make a statement on this important subject.

Mr. Lyons

In view of the important contribution of street lighting to road safety and of the report of the committee which has been considering the matter, why should there be any delay in the Minister telling the House what trunk roads have already been illuminated under the powers he now has, and what he proposes to do?

Captain Hudson

My right hon. Friend has been considering this important report, and he hopes, in a very few days, to be able to give an answer.

Mr. Lyons

Cannot my hon. and gallant Friend now say what trunk roads have been illuminated? It is not a question of study?

Captain Hudson

Not without notice.