§ 'A local authority may appoint such numbers of persons as appear to the authority to be necessary or expedient to act its wardens as respects a footpath, bridleway or byway open to all traffic which is both in the countryside and in the area of the authority, and the purpose for which the wardens may be so appointed is to advise and assist the public in connection with the use of the path or way.'.—[Mr. Monro]
§ Brought up, and read the First time.
§ Mr. Neil Thorne (Ilford, South)I am very disappointed with the clause, because it says only "may appoint … wardens". It is important that the footpaths be properly protected. In the centres of our cities and towns we rely on our local authorities to maintain parking discipline, whether or not it costs them money on the rates. However reluctant I am to suggest additional expenditure, I should like to see a requirement that local authorities appoint wardens to make sure that the footpaths are kept open for the general public.
What powers will the wardens have? Many responsible citizens belonging to rambling organisations find that they meet not only barbed wire and other physical obstructions but signs such as "Fowl pest", "Swine fever" and "Foot and mouth disease", which are sometimes left up for years. It is wrong that farmers should be allowed to get away with this behavour. Being responsible people, the ramblers keep well away. I have heard of one farm that had not been known to keep fowls for the past 20 years but had had such a sign for two or three years.
The local authorities should be vigilant and ensure that proper facilities are provided for the public. It is wrong that the ramblers and others should not have the free access to the countryside that is their right.
§ Question put and agreed to.
§ Clause read a Second time, and added to the Bill.