§ 69. Mr. Saltasked the Home Secretary whether, when considering the danger of the present practice which permits motorists to use either the near or off-side head-lamp, he will permit the use of both simultaneously provided the new regulation masks have been fitted?
§ Sir J. AndersonI have no reason to suppose that any danger will arise from the option permitted to motorists to use the new head-lamp mask on either the near-side or the off-side lamp. The masked head-lamp should be invisible to oncoming traffic, and the position of the car will be indicated by the side-lights. The use of both head-lights simultaneously would increase the amount of light on the road surface to a degree which could not be permitted in present circumstances.
§ Mr. SaltDoes not my right hon. Friend consider that the concession asked for in my question would reduce the dangers now experienced from road accidents, and that the benefits would exceed the risks that might be incurred? Is he not aware that when the near-side headlight only is used it may be confused with the off-side light, especially as motorists are likely to drive close to the white line, and that this danger is even greater where heavy vehicles are concerned?
§ Sir J. AndersonThese matters are constantly the subject of experiment, and I am guided by the best advice I can obtain.