§ 13. Sir I. Fraserasked the Minister of Transport if he will consider the desirability of setting up turnpike roads in 1558 Britain on the lines that have been successful recently in the United States of America.
Mr. BraithwaiteNo, Sir. Circumstances in this country differ in many respects from those in the United States.
§ Sir I. FraserIn view of this most disappointing and unimaginative reply, would not my hon. Friend ascertain from the United States that both safety and speed are increased, and taxpayers' and ratepayers' money saved, by this admirable development? Will he not at least inquire into it because of its great potential advantage to our country?
Mr. BraithwaiteWe have inquired into this matter. The tolls estimated to be necessary in this country would be considerably higher per mile than those in the United States owing to the greater cost of land and because we have in this country more roads in relation to the size of the country and its population than exist in the United States. That is why I pointed out that the circumstances differ.
§ Sir I. FraserWould the Minister publish a measured reply to this Question, because many who have seen these roads in the U.S.A. feel that it would be well to be in touch with this development?
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonIn view of the Minister's reference to the difference between conditions in this country and the United States, will he ensure that American army drivers are acquainted with the elements of the British Highway Code because recent court-martial proceedings showed that they were not even aware of the 20 m.p.h. limit for 5-ton motor lorries?
§ Mr. HayDoes my hon. Friend's reply really mean that the Government are opposed to the idea of having tolls upon the road?