HC Deb 05 June 1957 vol 571 cc1239-40
30. Mr. J. Howard

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what conclusions he has drawn from the double white-line experiment.

Mr. Watkinson

The initial phase of this experiment has shown the need for more contrast in the different forms of carriageway markings, and I am examining certain changes. We shall hope to try these out in the second phase of the experiment.

Mr. Howard

As my right hon. Friend will be aware, this form of marking has been in existence in France for some time. Does he agree that it is important to draw the attention of motorists to the fact that although it may be safe to cross the white line on leaving a bend, it is dangerous to cross the white line on entering a bend?

Mr. Watkinson

I am grateful to my hon. Friend for drawing attention to the scheme. There is much merit in trying to use the double white-line scheme in this country. I propose to continue my experiments to try to find the best way of doing it.

Mr. Ernest Davies

Will the right hon. Gentleman say to what extent observa- tions have shown that the white line is being observed? In reply to a previous Question he said that if necessary he would take compulsory powers to compel adherence to the requirement that motorists should keep to the right side of the line. Is he considering taking compulsory powers?

Mr. Watkinson

Yes, but not until we have carried out more experiments and I am satisfied that we have found the best form of double white-line marking for this country.