HC Deb 20 January 1965 vol 705 cc183-4
10. Sir A. Meyer

asked the Minister of Transport if he will introduce a uniform system of priority for motor traffic at road junctions and roundabouts.

Mr. Swingler

Experiments are being carried out at a number of roundabouts to determine whether incoming traffic should give way to traffic in the roundabout. These experiments are not yet concluded. There is no need for a basic priority rule at junctions other than roundabouts since minor roads are now to be distinguished from major by carriageway markings.

Sir A. Meyer

When considering this question, will the hon. Gentleman take a look at Continental experience, where it emerges pretty clearly that a uniform system of priority relieves doubts and anxieties at these crossroads? If he has tried to drive round Hyde Park Corner, he will be aware of the danger caused by the indecision of motorists not knowing whether to give way to cars on the right or left.

Mr. Swingler

I appreciate that there is a good deal of evidence on this subject, but it is conflicting. This problem has been considered for many years, but un- fortunately it has not been possible up to now to resolve it. We hope that the experiments now being carried out with "give way" signs will enable us to come to a firm conclusion shortly.

Mr. Paget

Has my hon. Friend considered the point that if we gave absolute priority to this milling traffic at Hyde Park Corner nobody would ever get in at all?