HC Deb 27 January 1960 vol 616 c148
50. Mr. A. Roberts

asked the Minister of Transport when he proposes to carry out experimental tests on major roads with the sparkling white line.

Mr. Marples

Tests have been made and are being carried out with these glass-beaded lines.

Mr. Roberts

If these experiments are not successful, will the use of continuous cats' eyes continue? The public are concerned about cats' eyes being removed.

Mr. Marples

The Road Research Laboratory is carrying out tests both on its premises and on the roads concerned. I think that we ought to wait until we see the results of those tests before going to the second stage.

Mr. Roberts

May we have an assurance that the use of cats' eyes will be continued if these experiments are not successful?

Mr. Marples

Certainly. Some system has to be adopted to show where these white lines are. We shall adopt the most effective method.

Mr. Mason

Will the Minister specify what he means by glass-beaded lines?

Mr. Marples

It is a substance called ballotini which is painted on the white lines and incorporates very small glass beads.