§ 11. Mr. Mawbyasked the Secretary of State for Transport what steps he is taking to ensure the greater use of dipped headlights, as required by the Road Vehicle Lighting Regulations 1971, S.I. 1971 No. 694, and 1975, S.I. 1975 No. 245.
§ Mr. HoramThe new Highway Code to be published shortly will clearly enunciate the requirements for day- and nighttime use of headlights; guidance on their use in fog is also included in the fog code. We also use television to get the message across.
§ Mr. MawbyI am grateful to the Minister for that reply, which shows that certainly the Department is on the ball in this matter. Does he realise that reflective signs, particularly reflective clothing on pedestrians, are useless unless headlights are used by the motorist in poor conditions? Will he do everything to impress upon motorists that when in doubt they should use their headlights?
§ Mr. HoramI think the hon. Gentleman has put it very well. My general advice to motorists is to use dipped headlights at night unless the road is well lit and always to use them on motorways and on high-speed roads even if these are well lit.
§ Mr. Temple-MorrisWill the Minister confirm that at present he is dealing with advice and good intentions and that his Ministry has no plans to introduce legislation relating to the compulsory use of dipped headlights at night.