HC Deb 23 April 1951 vol 487 cc20-1
44. Mr. George Thomas

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware of the danger caused to pedestrians and motorists in the South Wales valleys by the large number of sheep allowed to roam the roads; and whether, in the interests of the prevention of road accidents, he will seek a report on this matter from his Advisory Committee on the Prevention of Road Accidents.

Mr. Barnes

I have received no reports from the motoring organisations or elsewhere suggesting that straying sheep—[HON. MEMBERS: "Black sheep."]—are causing serious danger to road traffic in South Wales and I doubt whether this matter could with advantage be referred to the Committee on Road Safety. But if my hon. Friend will be good enough to let me have more particulars, I will look into the matter further.

Mr. Thomas

Is my right hon. Friend aware that recently there has been a fatal accident—[Laughter.] It would seem that I am unfortunate in the day that this Question has reached the Order Paper, but it is no laughing matter. Would my right hon. Friend carry out the request I have made in my Question?

Mr. Llewellyn

Before any action is decided upon, will the right hon. Gentleman discuss this matter with those of his right hon. Friends who are more familiar with the problems of straying Welsh sheep than he is?