HC Deb 15 May 1963 vol 677 cc1294-5
18. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Minister of Transport if he will issue a comparative and comprehensive statement of figures showing the effect of speed on road accidents in general.

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

The evidence available does not lead to a simple and clear relationship between speed and accidents which could be illustrated by a statement of figures. The available data were, however, summarised and discussed in a paper by the Deputy Director of the Road Research Laboratory at an International Conference in 1960. I am sending the hon. Member a copy.

Mr. Hughes

Will the Minister not agree that the time is long overdue when he should make a really scientific attempt to discover the ingredients and causes of the slaughter on the roads? What is he doing to find out whether speed plays an important part and is an important ingredient in that slaughter?

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

That is precisely what the paper to which I referred attempts to do. It is difficult to summarise it, but I would say this, that the risk of accidents occurring depends, of course, on many factors; the evidence does, however, suggest that in any given set of circumstances an increase of speed makes an accident more likely and also more severe.

Mr. P. Noel-Baker

Does the Ministry of Transport still have a Road Safety Committee, and, if so, when did it last make a full report on the problem of preventing road accidents?

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

The Committee does still exist and meets continuously.

Mr. Noel-Baker

When did it last make a full report? Is it not time, in view of the vast increase in the number of motor cars which the Minister has warned us we are to expect, that it should give us a comprehensive picture of the problem and of the remedies it proposes?

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

I thought I had satisfied the right hon. Gentleman that the Committee keeps my right hon. Friend continuously advised on these events rather than producing major reports from time to time. I would also add, as it is only fair to point out, that accidents have recently, I am glad to say, gone down.