HC Deb 14 November 1949 vol 469 cc1674-5
42. Mr. Beswick

asked the Minister of Transport if he is yet able to say when action will be taken to implement the recommendation of the Committee of Road Safety Report of 1947 that cycles should have efficient brakes, and that all parts and accessories of cycles should be in such a condition that no danger is caused to other road users.

Mr. Barnes

I intend to give effect to the recommendation as to brakes when circumstances permit. I have not accepted the other recommendation referred to and do not, therefore, propose to take action on it.

Mr. Beswick

Can my right hon. Friend say, in reference to the first recommendation, when circumstances are likely to permit?

Mr. Barnes

This is a question both of supplies and information. I do not think that it is a matter of sufficient importance at present to cause me to take unnecessary action.

Mr. Beswick

Does not my right hon. Friend agree that no supplies are involved and that this is simply a question of making it compulsory for brakes to be efficient? In view of the pressure that there is from the local road safety committees, will my right hon. Friend see whether something can be done?

Mr. Barnes

It would require the provision of brakes if I made this compulsory.