HC Deb 25 January 1967 vol 739 cc1484-5
18. Mr. Ian Lloyd

asked the Minister of Transport whether she accepts the findings of the Solomon Report on Accidents on Main Rural Highways Related to Speed, Driver and Vehicle, details of which have been sent to her.

19. Mr. Ian Lloyd

asked the Minister of Transport what changes in speed limit legislation she proposes to introduce as a result of the findings of the Solomon Report, details of which have been sent to her.

Mr. John Morris

The Solomon Report is among the evidence being considered by the inter-departmental working party which is now reviewing all aspects of speed limit policy. It is too early to say what changes in legislation or practice may result from this review.

Mr. Lloyd

While thanking the Parliamentary Secretary for that slightly encouraging reply, may I ask him if this inter-departmental working party will pay very close attention to the serious statistical evidence which the Solomon Committee produced, that the relative speeds on major highways are a far more important contributory factor to accidents than absolute speed?

Mr. Morris

I am well aware of these matters and the Road Research Laboratory is re-examining the report and has been discussing certain factors with the U.S. Bureau of Public Roads.

Mr. Molloy

Is my hon. Friend aware that those of us who are concerned with the high accident rate approve very much the 70-mile-an-hour experiment? Can his right hon. Friend give the House an assurance that she will in no way be influenced by some ridiculous hostile propaganda to call off this very important experiment?

Mr. Morris

I can give my hon. Friend every assurance that my right hon. Friend will pursue this experiment. In due course we hope to have a discussion in the House on it.