§ 2. Lieut-Colonel Sir Thomas Mooreasked the Minister of Transport whether he will consider publishing simple instructions clarifying the existing law regarding priority of usage between pedestrians and motor traffic at studded street crossings.
§ Mr. BarnesThe provisions of the Pedestrian Crossing Places (Traffic) Regulations, 1941, are clearly summarised on page 28 of the Highway Code. I have asked the Committee on Road Safety to examine the question of the use and observance of pedestrian crossing places, and when they have reported I will consider whether the regulations can be improved.
§ Sir T. MooreWould the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the present position is quite chaotic, that the issue is constantly between weight and agility, that the odds are, generally, on weight—that is, on the motor vehicle—and that the pedestrian has to suffer?
§ Mr. BarnesI would not agree that the conditions are chaotic. It is laid down quite clearly in the orders issued that the pedestrian has the right of way with regard to pedestrian crossings.
§ Sir T. MooreThe pedestrian may have the right of way, but if the motor vehicle persists in going on, he has to be very quick to get out of its way.
§ Mr. BarnesI would point out that a fine is imposed if the conditions are infringed.
§ Mr. Skeffington-LodgeWould my right hon. Friend commend to other areas the very excellent arrangements which exist in Kensington High Street? They are first-class in that part of London.
§ Mr. BarnesThe rules and regulations are no different in Kensington High Street from elsewhere.
Vice-Admiral TaylorCan the Minister tell us whether, where there are lights on the crossings, the pedestrian has the right to pass whether those lights are green or red?
§ Mr. BarnesNo, Sir, the pedestrian has not that right when the lights are against him.