HC Deb 07 December 1938 vol 342 cc1156-7
28. Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

asked the Minister of Transport what action he is taking to ensure that the provisions of the Road Traffic Act as to the exhibition of traffic signs not authorised by him are being properly observed?

Mr. Burgin

It is my desire that unauthorised traffic signs should not be exhibited, and accordingly on 31st August last I issued a circular letter to all highway authorities asking what steps have been, or will be, taken for the removal of unauthorised traffic signs and their replacement, where necessary, by signs which conform to Section 48 of the Road Traffic Act, 1930. I will send a copy of the circular to the hon. and gallant Member for his information.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Has the right hon. Gentleman's attention been called to the existence of a great number of unauthorised signs put up by private owners to call attention to entrance gates to their property, thus endeavouring to throw a responsibility on the motorist which does not in fact exist?

Mr. Burgin

I am aware of that, and I am anxious that these unauthorised signs should be withdrawn.

Mr. Thorne

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that the Belisha beacons are of any use on the roads?

Sir Joseph Nall

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there are certain cases where unusual signs perform a very useful purpose and that their abolition should not be agreed to without careful consideration?

60. Mr. Simpson

asked the Minister of Transport what complaints he has received as to the non-effectiveness of road caution signs denoting schools; and whether he will consider the addition of a flashing light to such signs to operate at danger periods?

Mr. Burgin

I have only received very few specific complaints on this point. I have, however, authorised the experimental use of a flashing school sign in Exeter and am prepared to authorise further similar experiments. I have also authorised for use in the area of the London County Council a sign bearing the words "Beware of school children in streets," to be exhibited when the children are arriving or leaving.