HC Deb 25 July 1956 vol 557 c398
19. Mr. W. Yates

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he will give the details of the order which he has made and type of crossing gate of which he has approved, as being suitable for a rail crossing over the trunk road A5 at Oakengates, Shropshire.

Mr. Molson

My right hon. Friend has made no order. I understand, however, that, as the result of discussions between the local interests concerned, the company operating the railway has agreed to provide longer and lower swing barriers across the road. These will carry an illuminated warning and the advance warning signs will also be illuminated.

Mr. Yates

While thanking my right hon. Friend for his reply, may I ask whether he thinks that swivel arms alone are suitable on a main trunk road? Why is he not willing to make an order on the same lines as that for the gates used by the National Coal Board or British Railways where a private railway crosses a trunk main road, and avoid some serious accidents?

Mr. Molson

For two reasons. The first, as I indicated on a previous occasion, is that my right hon. Friend has no power to make the order.

Dame Irene Ward

Take it.

Mr. Molson

In the second place, we are satisfied that this is a reasonable provision for ensuring the safety of the crossing.

Mr. Yates

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. I assure you that the provisions are not suitable, and I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment as soon as possible.