§ 32. Mr. Pageasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he is aware of the dangers to children in streets designated as "play streets", when those streets are used by through traffic and whether he will take steps by means of the Highway Code or otherwise, to draw the attention of drivers to the fact 387 that it is an offence to drive a vehicle in a play street except when calling at premises in the street.
§ Mr. WatkinsonIt is an offence under the Street Playgrounds Act, 1938, for through traffic to use a play street during the hours of prohibition. In the Traffic Signs Regulations, 1957, which came in force on 1st March, the size of the signs indicating these streets has been increased.
§ Mr. PageIs my right hon. Friend aware that there are play streets within a mile of this House which are consistently being used by through traffic, which is not an uncommon occurrence in the rest of the country? Would my right hon. Friend have an inquiry made of towns which have play streets to see whether or not they are being observed as play streets? Will he also consider the provision of more conspicuous signs so that motorists know where these streets are, or the use of such a device as bulging pavements at the entrance of these streets?
§ Mr. WatkinsonThe signs are being enlarged to make them more conspicuous. I do not think that an inquiry is called for, but if the hon. Member has details of play streets which are being abused. I shall be happy to look into them.