§ 1. Mr. Knoxasked the Minister of Transport what representations he has received about the need to make the use of dipped headlights compulsory in built-up areas.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport (Mr. Kenneth Clarke)A number of representations have been received, mainly from the Night Safety Advisory Bureau, in favour of requiring the universal use of headlamps at night. There have also been representations against it.
§ Mr. KnoxWill my hon. Friend confirm that there is some evidence to show that dipped headlights are safer than sidelights in built-up areas? Will he consider introducing legislation to make the use of dipped headlights compulsory in those areas?
§ Mr. ClarkeMany people use dipped headlights at night. I do. However, it is a matter of individual judgment. At present, the Government cannot contemplate introducing any legislation to make the use of dipped headlights compulsory.
§ Mr. Temple-MorrisIn his reasonable way, will my hon. Friend bear in mind that there are two sides to this argument? Does he accept that in inner urban areas a motorist finds it difficult to see pedestrians if he faces a stream of oncoming traffic that is using headlights?
§ Mr. ClarkeI know that there are two sides to the argument. However, the 388 decision should be left to the individual judgment of motorists. The Government could not successfully make the use of head lights compulsory.