HC Deb 21 March 1960 vol 620 cc1-2
3. Mr. Ridley

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he intends to implement the proposals made by the Royal Commission on Common Land with regard to the fencing of trunk roads through commons.

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. J. B. Godber)

My Ministry is considering these and other proposals of the Royal Commission and the comments made on them by various organisations and bodies that have been consulted on the Report. I regret that I am not yet in a position to make a statement.

Mr. Ridley

While thanking my hon. Friend for that reply, may I ask whether he agrees that there is a degree of urgency in the matter? I hope he will consider it in the light of road safety and the fact that the straying of animals across roads constitutes a danger on the roads.

Mr. Godber

Yes, I entirely agree that this is a difficult problem and one where danger can arise. I would point out to my hon. Friend, however, that this applies not only to common land but to any land which is unfenced. But it is a very important point.