HC Deb 25 May 1938 vol 336 cc1212-3
62. Mr. R. Gibson

asked the Minister of Transport how many towns and cities in England and Wales have notice boards on the roadside at the entrances thereto showing, in each case, the number of persons killed and injured, respectively, during the preceding year in motor accidents in the town or city concerned; and whether, with a view to diminishing the number of accidents, he will consider making a grant to municipalities for this purpose?

Mr. Burgin

I am afraid the information desired by the hon. and learned Member is not readily available. I am not convinced of the value of notices of this type. I am not prepared to assist towards the cost of their erection, and deprecate additional notice boards on or near the highway.

Mr. Gibson

Will the Minister not consider the statistics of the towns where such boards have been placed against those where they have not been placed, and might he not consider putting up, or arranging to be put up, such boards on roads where casualties have been heavy?

Mr. Burgin

There is a good deal of information available. and I am not con- vinced that such notices would have the deterrent effect expected by the hon. Member.

Mr. Sorensen

Did not the right hon. Gentleman authorise the placing of such a notice on the Southend road?

Mr. Macquisten

Is it not very simple to put up a skull and crossbones?