HC Deb 14 July 1954 vol 530 cc454-5
37. Mr. Keenan

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he is aware that many of the zebra crossings in the city of Liverpool have not been equipped with flashing-light beacons; and what steps he proposes to take to cause the authority in Liverpool to provide the protection to which pedestrians are entitled by equipping the beacons at the zebra crossings with flashing lights.

Mr. Molson

I understand that beacon equipment has now been installed at most of the crossings in Liverpool and the contract for the electricity supply has been placed. The work should be completed and the beacons operating very shortly.

Mr. Keenan

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this failure of the corporation even to anticipate the changes to be made has caused a great deal of concern? Does he realise that opinion in Liverpool and in many other places is that the new regulations, coupled with the disappearance of some crossings, make it appear that the Ministry of Transport is more concerned about getting speed on the roads and is entirely neglecting the duty to preserve the life of the pedestrian?

Mr. Molson

It is not for me to comment on the administration of the Liverpool Corporation. In answer to the second part of the question, I would say that my right hon. Friend has a dual responsibility which is to try to minimise road accidents and also to try to keep road traffic moving.

Mr. Logan

Is the Minister aware that on the way to the North there is great congestion of traffic on Scotland Road and that even the lighting of zebra crossings will not get rid of the difficulties and dangers? Is there any possibility of an underground tunnel to allow old people and others a measure of safety?

Mr. Molson

This matter has been considered and some research into it has been carried out by the Road Research Laboratory. Unfortunately, it has been found that pedestrians are extremely unwilling to use underground tunnels when they are provided.

Mr. Logan

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that I live on the spot and I see congestion at this bottleneck every day of the week—except when I am here. [Interruption.] I had to put in that proviso. The fact is that the little archway from Cazneau Street to the Rotunda Theatre is the main way to the North of England and it is continuously congested. There is no other solution but the provision of an underground passage. Will the hon. Gentleman look into the matter?

Mr. Molson

I am certainly prepared to look into the matter.