§ 37. Mr. Lomasasked the Minister of Transport if he will define the term, "Slow down", which is now displayed on many roads of this country when a hazard is ahead; and if he will substitute for this phrase one which states a maximum speed at which vehicles may travel.
Mr. Bob Brown"Slow down" is not an authorised road sign or road marking. The word "Slow" is used to warn drivers of a potential danger ahead and the need for caution. In such cases it would be difficult to select one speed which would be a suitable maximum for all vehicles in all road conditions.
§ Mr. LomasDoes not my hon. Friend agree that there is a world of difference, in relation to two vehicles, one travelling at 70 m.p.h. and one at 30 m.p.h., in what "Slow down" means? Should there not be a specified speed limit substituted?
Mr. BrownI have already said that "Slow down" is not an authorised sign. The sign "Slow" means what it says.
§ Miss QuennellWill the hon. Gentleman help the House further? If "Slow" means what it says, what is "Dead Slow "?
Mr. BrownIf we take both "Dead Slow" and "Slow", I should think that "Dead Slow" must indicate an almost stopping speed. The sign "Slow" should clearly indicate to a driver that there is a hazard ahead and that he ought to use common sense and slow down.