§ 27. Mr. George Jegerasked the Minister of Transport whether he will initiate discussions with the British Railways Board with a view to the planned elimination of all level crossings on 30 public highways, starting with those situated in towns such as Goole.
§ Mr. CarmichaelNo, Sir. As a general proposition, other road improvements could give better value for money. But highway authorities may always negotiate with the Railways Board about individual crossings.
§ Mr. JegerIs my hon. Friend aware that the Railways Board has declined on grounds of expense to consider eliminating level crossings? Is not this an opportunity for the Government to come to the aid of the Railways Board on the ground of the dangers of unmanned crossings and the delays which are caused even by manned crossings when lines cross towns, as in Goole?
§ Mr. CarmichaelMy hon. Friend may not appreciate that there are approximately 2,400 crossings in Britain and that the cost would be about £250 million.