HC Deb 06 February 1957 vol 564 cc436-7
48. Mr. Ernest Davies

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he will request the London and Home Counties Advisory Committee or other appropriate body to report to him on the improvement in London traffic conditions arising from petrol rationing and to make recommendations as to how such improved conditions can be made permanent.

Mr. Watkinson

I have asked the Road Research Laboratory, in co-operation with my Department to investigate, and to report to me as soon as possible on the effects of petrol rationing on traffic in London.

Mr. Davies

While appreciating that the Minister has taken this action, may I ask if he does not realise that public opinion will now be much more favourable to severe restrictions on the parking of private cars in London and the cluttering up of the main arteries, now that they have experienced the improvement that has taken place, and would it not be incredible folly to return to the situation which we had before the inception of petrol rationing?

Mr. Watkinson

I hope that the hon. Gentleman's statement that motorists will be more ready to accept severe restrictions is true.

Mr. Davies

But does he not appreciate that motorists are only the minority, and that previously it has been that minority, the car owners and car drivers, that has made conditions worse, at the expense of millions of passengers travelling on public transport services daily?

Mr. Watkinson

I can see the point and, of course, as the hon. Gentleman knows, under the Road Traffic Act it is now possible for the police to tow away motor cars causing an obstruction, and that is one of the steps that might be taken.