14. Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Minister of Transport whether he has received any complaints regarding the de-restriction of a section of the Bradford-Otley road between White Cross and Hawksworth Lane, at Guiseley, Yorkshire; whether he is aware that since de-restriction the number of accidents has increased and the danger to children and pedestrians has considerably increased; and whether, in view of the very fast traffic along this stretch of the road and the casualties that have occurred, and the anxiety felt by the residents in the neighbourhood, he will consider the re-imposition of the restriction on this section of the road?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport (Captain Austin Hudson)The West Riding County Council recently inquired whether my right hon. Friend would give his consent to the re-imposition of the speed limit on the length of road to which the hon. Member refers. After careful consideration of the representation made and reports furnished to him, he came to the conclusion that this road cannot properly be regarded as a road in a built-up area and made subject to the speed limit. He has, however, informed the county council that he will be prepared to review the position in the light of any future development.
Mr. Creech JonesIn view of the fact that this district is increasing in population and that there is considerable apprehension among the people who have to use the road, and also that the local authority is very anxious about it, will the Minister not cause a further inquiry to be made so that this restriction can be imposed?
§ Captain HudsonWe have considered this case carefully and have consulted the chief constable. I have already said that we are prepared to review the position in the light of future developments. We shall watch it carefully, but at the moment it does not seem to be right that this road should be subject to a speed limit.