HC Deb 16 February 1955 vol 537 cc355-6
10. Mr. Crouch

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he will make an order for the discontinuance of flashing car indicators.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

The Road Research Laboratory is making an investigation into the use of various types of flashing indicators, and I will review the whole question when I receive its report.

Mr. Crouch

Has my right hon. Friend not experienced difficulty when following these flashing lights, particularly as one's foot might slip and put on the foot brake? They are very misleading. On the other hand, indicators that go straight out tell one surely whether a car is going to the right or to the left. Is it not a fact that, in the past, winks have led many a man into trouble?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

As to the last part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question, I must bow to his superior knowledge. As regards the main part of it, he will recall that these indicators were authorised only on 1st January, 1954, with a view to assisting the export trade. In view of the investigation to which I have referred, and in view of the short time that these indicators have been operating, I ought to keep an eye on them a little longer.

Lieut-Colonel Lipton

Is not the Minister aware that these flashing car indicators have, in that short time, added a great deal to the confusion for even the most sober driver who is following behind them? Will he bear in mind that the sober driver already has to contend with traffic lights, flashing beacons, and what not? Please do not add to his difficulties.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

There is a good deal in what the hon. and gallant Gentleman has said, but he will appreciate that these indicators are of different types and that the objections apply more strongly to some than to others.