§ 1. Miss Fookesasked the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received about the need to make the use of dipped headlights compulsory in built-up areas.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Mr. John Horam)Representations have been made, mainly by a body called the Night Safety Advisory Bureau, that I should make it compulsory to use headlamps in built-up areas at night. I am not convinced that it would be right to introduce this new element of compulsion.
§ Miss FookesAre not uniformity and simplicity in road traffic law to be desired? Would it not be more convenient for everyone if sidelights were used only for parking and dipped headlights were used at all other times?
§ Mr. HoramI agree with the hon. Lady that simplicity and uniformity are desirable aims. On the other hand, I do not think that the motorist should be over-regulated in circumstances in which his common sense can be trusted. The rules are perfectly clear, and the advice in the Highway Code is worth following.
§ Mr. MawbyWill the hon. Gentleman consult the many bodies that believe that there should be a change in the law, so that at least he will learn their opinions?
§ Mr. HoramI shall keep a watch on the matter. As the hon. Gentleman said, a number of groups have made representations, particularly the one I men- 396 tioned, and also the motoring organisations. I shall keep the matter under review, but I do not feel that there should be a change at present.
§ Mr. LawrenceIs the Minister's commendable refusal to use compulsion a policy that he will consistently follow in other aspects of policy in his Department?
§ Mr. HoramI believe that it is always a mistake to use compulsion, unless one has failed by voluntary means to achieve one's object.