§ 32. Dr. John Dunwoodyasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether he will ensure that instruction en the functioning of automatic level crossings with half-barriers shall be a part of road safety tuition in all schools.
§ Miss BaconThis is a matter for the local education authorities and the 1546 schools, but those concerned should be aware of the need to ensure, with the co-operation of British Rail, that, where automatic level crossings are introduced, school children are adequately instructed in their safe use.
§ Dr, DunwoodyWould my hon. Friend agree that parents in many parts of the country feel, justifiably, very anxious about these crossings? Would she further agree that there are sufficient crossings in the country for instructions and tuition to be given throughout the country and not just in those areas where crossings are being set up?
§ Miss BaconI fully understand the anxiety of my hon. Friend about these crossings, and it is essential that children should receive some instruction, particularly if there may be a tendency to play "last across" in the same way as children do on the roads. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport informs me that officials of British Railways visit local schools and talk to the children, show them films of the crossings in action, and distribute posters and pamphlets.