§ 4. Mr. Hoosonasked the Secretary of State for Wales whether he will seek full responsibility for the provision and maintenance of new road lighting schemes on all trunk roads which pass through villages in Wales.
§ The Under for Wales (Mr. Ifor Davies)It has been my right hon. Friend's responsibility since 1st April, 1966, to provide new lighting installations on trunk roads. He is also prepared from 1st April, 1966, to take over all existing installations to the cost of which he or the Minister of Transport contributed. The Local Government Bill provides that, from 1st April, 1967, all existing road lighting installations will be transferred to the relevant highway authorities, so he will then assume responsibility for the remaining installations on trunk roads.
§ Mr. HoosonIs the hon. Gentleman aware that some villages through which trunk roads pass think that they badly need lighting but that this lighting is categorised as amenity lighting? Is the Secretary of State prepared to take the responsibility for the lighting of these villages?
§ Mr. DaviesThe importance of lighting trunk roads through villages is fully appreciated. The assessments we are making will show where new lighting is most needed.