HC Deb 27 January 1966 vol 723 cc382-3
26. Mr. H. Hynd

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will ask the Commissioner of Police to withdraw his men on point duty at the Bridge Street-Parliament Street corner during sittings of the House, so that traffic signals can be restored for the convenience of hon. Members.

57. Mr. Dodds-Parker

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, in view of the continuing shortage of police, he will now continue the use at all times of the traffic lights in Parliament Square, for the greater convenience of the travelling public.

Mr. Roy Jenkins

I am ready to be guided by the wishes of the House. Should there be a general desire that the traffic lights should operate while the House is sitting, I shall be glad to reconsider the present arrangements in consultation with the Commissioner.

Mr. Hynd

In thanking my right hon. Friend for that Answer, may I ask whether he is aware that while we appreciate the desire of the Commissioner of Police to carry out the terms of the Sessional Order, the point-duty men cannot be expected to recognise Members of Parliament and that during the Recesses it is very often quicker to cross the street when the traffic lights are in operation?

Mr. Jenkins

I will bear the point in mind. It is certainly the view of the police that traffic approaching Parliament Square can be dealt with more effectively when the lights are in operation than when they are not. It is also the case that were the lights to operate while the House was sitting there would be a not inconsiderable saving of manpower. As I said in my original Answer, however, I am in the hands of the House in this matter.