HC Deb 17 February 1971 vol 811 cc1827-8
30. Mr. Wilkinson

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many officials of his Department attended trials of the Dragon Kerb Road Safety Barrier; and when the Road Research Laboratory was consulted regarding an assessment of this barrier.

Mr. Peyton

One member of my Department has attended trials on two occasions. The Road Research Laboratory has been consulted.

Mr. Wilkinson

Is my right hon. Friend aware that this device was featured in the B.B.C. programme, "Tomorrow's World", that it has not yet failed in tests up to a speed of 55 m.p.h. and that if one hits the barrier at 55 m.p.h., one comes away unscathed, which is more than can be said for most barriers along British motorways?

Mr. Peyton

I have a great regard for what my hon. Friend says, of course, but I do not believe that this device has yet been subjected to a sufficiently complete range of tests. Before I thought that I was justified in adopting a new device for such a purpose, such tests would certainly be necessary. I must tell my hon. Friend that I know about the film. My Department suggested to the company concerned that it should make it available but did not receive a very helpful response.