HC Deb 15 May 1963 vol 677 cc1293-4
12. Mr. Loveys

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will make it illegal for vehicles travelling on clearways to make use of lay-bys situated on the opposite side of the road to that on which the vehicle is travelling.

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

No, Sir. We hope that, as more lay-bys are provided, motorists will normally use those on the nearside, but I do not think we would be justified in making this compulsory at present.

Mr. Loveys

Would not my hon. and gallant Friend agree that, in districts where it is feasible to have lay-bys on both sides of a clearway, it is courting disaster to erect signs, as is the case on many clearways, with arrows inviting motorists to cross over fast oncoming traffic to make use of a lay-by on the other side of the clearway?

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

Yes, I appreciate that. That is why we are trying to provide more lay-bys on the roads. The prohibition of crossing the road might result in vehicles doing a U-turn to get in and to get out again, which would be no safer and no less disturbing to other traffic than the present system.