HC Deb 26 May 1954 vol 528 cc378-9
13. Mr. Ian Harvey

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he will take additional steps, by means of more warning signs, to draw the attention of motorists to the value of filter lights in accelerating the movement of traffic, particularly in crowded streets.

Mr. Molson

I am anxious not to increase the number of road signs unless their advantage is clearly manifest. Except at a few of the most complicated junctions, I do not think motorists need special signs to indicate which lane they should choose, but if my hon. Friend has any particular cases in mind, I will be glad to examine them.

14. Mr. Ian Harvey

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation why omnibuses are permitted, particularly in London, to put down and take up passengers within 50 yards of traffic filter lights, thus interfering with the purpose of their installation.

Mr. Molson

We think that bus stops should not normally be sited within 40 yards of traffic signals, whether or not fitted with filter lights. In exceptional cases, however, particularly in congested areas, the number of services, the road layout or the needs of passengers make this impracticable.

Mr. Harvey

Will my hon. Friend draw this answer to the attention of the London Transport Executive?

Mr. Molson

I am not sure that it is necessary to do that. The whole question of where bus stops should be sited is settled by the Stopping Places Advisory Committee, which contains representatives of all the authorities concerned—the Ministry, the police, the London Transport Executive and licensing authority, as well as a representative of the unions.