§ Q1. Miss Herbisonasked the Prime Minister if he will appoint a committee to inquire into the means of alleviating danger to pedestrians whose homes are situated in close proximity to a trunk road; and if he will ensure that such a committee will examine the need to eliminate the danger to pedestrians at Moodiesburn, Lanarkshire.
§ The First Secretary of State (Mr. R. A. Butler)I have been asked to reply.
No, Sir. This is a matter which can only be dealt with satisfactorily in the light of local conditions where the danger may arise.
§ Miss HerbisonIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the very grave dangers in this part of Lanarkshire mentioned in my Question? Is he also aware that his right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland will neither erect an overhead bridge nor construct an underway path for the thousands of families living in the area? Finally, is he aware that there have been many fatal accidents on this road, with its very fast-moving traffic? If he will not set up a committee, will he use his influence with the Secretary of State for Scotland to provide some safe means by which these people can cross the road?
§ Mr. ButlerI have acquainted myself with the problems that affect this area, and the accidents that have occurred. I have also studied the correspondence between my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State and the hon. Lady. I can only say that the matter is now in the hands of the Lanarkshire County Council, which will make positive proposals to deal with the matter. I will certainly speak with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland with a view to forwarding suggestions.