HC Deb 24 March 1952 vol 498 cc17-8
41. Mr. Percy Shurmer

asked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that in the City of Birmingham, 215 school's which previously had pedestrian crossings outside, no longer have them; and, in view of the need to prevent accidents among children, if he will take action to approve the restoration of these crossings.

Mr. Maclay

I believe the hon. Member's figures of 215 is on the high side. I feel sure that where children have to cross busy roads near schools the real answer is for adult patrols to see them safely across the road and that uncontrolled pedestrian crossings which are little used except by school children can be more of a danger than a safeguard to them. I do not think, therefore, that I can approve of the restoration of such crossings.

Mr. Shurmer

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this involves something like 100,000 children, that the parents are greatly concerned at the removal of these crossings and that only 95 of the schools have decided to have school wardens? Is he aware that there were very few accidents previous to the removal of these crossings and does he think he will save children's lives by removing crossings in these dangerous streets?

Mr. Maclay

I must assure the hon. Member that it is with the interests of the children at heart that we believe these crossings can be more of a menace than a safety.

Mr. Charles Pannell

In view of the hon. Gentleman's declaration in favour of controlled pedestrian crossings outside schools, can I bring to his notice the fact that Kent County Council, as a measure of economy, following the circular issued by his right hon. Friend, propose to abolish all school road safety patrols in the county? What does he intend to do about that?

Mr. Maclay

That seems to be an entirely different question.

Hon. Members

No.

Mr. Donald Chapman

Reverting to the Birmingham position, has not the hon. Gentleman received a letter sent by me from a headmaster pointing out the dangers to children outside his school where a pedestrian crossing has been moved and placed about 150 yards up the road? It is not good enough to say that parents can be disregarded: what about schoolmasters?

Mr. Maclay

I have not said that parents should be disregarded. We are working on the problem and hope sooner or later—I hope sooner—that patrols outside the schools will be trained by the police. We are working on the matter as fast as we can.