§ 1. Mr. Shepherdasked the Minister of Transport if he is aware of the fact that the existing state of street naming and numbering is a factor in causing road accidents; and what steps he can take to bring about an improvement.
§ The Minister of Transport (Mr. Barnes)Yes, Sir. Unsatisfactory street naming and numbering may increase the risk of road accidents by distracting the attention of drivers. I have circulated to local authorities, on whom responsibility in this matter rests, the report of the Departmental Committee on Traffic Signs, 1944, which includes an important paragraph on this subject, and asked them to have regard to the recommendations made. I intend to issue a circular in the near future giving additional guidance on the design of street name plates.
§ Mr. ShepherdDoes not the right hon. Gentleman realise that he must show more imagination and drive in this matter? It has been hanging fire for seven years, and unless there is more effort than is now being made the present situation will probably continue for another four or five years.
§ Mr. BarnesYes, but it is really a matter for the local authorities, and it is not always easy to get a general movement throughout the country.
§ Mr. BossomWould the Minister try to bring about some uniformity so that motorists and others will know where to look if they want to find the name of a street or a number?
§ Mr. BarnesThat was the purpose of the Departmental Committee, and the intention behind my reply is to give general guidance towards uniformity.