§ 34. Mr. Lewisasked the Minister of Transport what further proposals he has to make with a view to reducing the great number of accidents still occurring daily on the roads?
§ Mr. BurginThe problem of the best manner in which to reduce the number of accidents on the roads is one which is constantly before me. At the moment I am concentrating upon steady and continuous attack upon the problem from every known angle rather than pinning my hopes to the discovery of some novel panacea. I am always glad to receive suggestions.
§ Mr. LewisWill the right hon. Gentleman consider regulating the movements of pedestrians on the roadways in the same way as the movements of vehicles are already regulated by law?
§ Mr. BurginThat matter has not escaped my attention. I am hoping to have very shortly a report from an advisory committee dealing with the whole question of pedestrian traffic.
§ Mr. LeachWould the right hon. Gentleman also consent to look into the question whether it is better to limit the horse power of engines and their speed capacity?
§ 30. Mr. Grovesasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that during the month of October, 1937, there were three fatal accidents within the county borough of West Ham, and road accidents which occasioned injury to 108 persons during the same period; and whether, therefore, he will take steps, in consultation with the local authority, to expedite highways improvements?
§ Mr. BurginYes, Sir. I will gladly consider any proposals for highway improvements which the local authority may think desirable.
§ Mr. GrovesIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that schemes of road improvements sanctioned and started years ago are still incomplete, and that bottlenecks still prevail, causing danger to the lives of the public; and will he do something, in collaboration with the local authority, to expedite these improvements?
§ Mr. BurginIn view of the information that has been given, I will communicate with the highway authority.