HC Deb 21 November 1962 vol 667 cc1210-2
23. Mr. Channon

asked the Minister of Transport if he will make a statement as to the effect of the experimental speed limits in force at weekends this summer.

Mr. Marples

On the lengths of road with a 50 m.p.h. speed limit there was a reduction of 30 per cent. in the number of accidents involving personal injury as compared with the corresponding weekends in 1959. On a group of comparable roads with no speed limit there was a similar reduction on the 1959 figure. On other roads in the non-built-up areas the number of casualties during the summer months of 1962 was about the same as in 1959.

Mr. Channon

Has my right hon. Friend made up his mind as to what he proposes to do next year? If he has not, will he consider, at any rate on some sections of these roads, not having speed limits so early on Fridays and carrying on so late on Mondays, because a great many people going to work find them unnecessary at those times?

Mr. Marples

I am considering the implications of these results and I will make a statement as soon as possible. However, I am sure that I take the whole House with me when I say that, if I can reduce the number of people killed and wounded by reducing the speed limit, it ought to be done. At present I do not think that the evidence is quite sufficient. I propose to examine it in great detail and I will consider the suggestion made by my hon. Friend.

Mr. John Hall

Is my right hon. Friend aware that over many motorways in the United States a speed limit of 60 miles per hour is imposed, which has been found extremely beneficial and conducive to the saving of life? Will he consider this for the future?

Mr. Marples

Yes, I have certainly got that in mind. There is an official of my Department in the United States now considering what happens on their motorways. From the reports that I have from him he has so far not been on a motorway whore the speed limit is in excess ot 65 miles per hour.

Sir H. Oakshott

Does my right hon. Friend agree that, in view of the very large increase in the number of motor cars on the roads since 1959, the figures he gave a few minutes ago are very satisfactory?

Mr. Marples

One of the most difficult problems for a Minister of Transport is the question of road accidents. The number of both fatalities and serious accidents is rising. Whilst the numbers are better than they were in the past, I still think they are bad by what I should consider would be the ideal.