HC Deb 25 March 1981 vol 1 cc917-8
13. Mr. Michael McNair-Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for Transport whether he intends to introduce any new road signs.

Mr. Fowler

Yes. The revised traffic signs regulations, which I hope to lay before the House by Easter, will introduce some new signs and road markings.

Mr. McNair-Wilson

As it is the International Year of Disabled People, and as the Highway Code does not include any signs specifically for the disabled—for example, to warn motorists that they are approaching a crossing that is regularly used by the disabled—will my right hon. Friend include among the signs that he intends to promote one relating to the disabled?

Mr. Fowler

We recognise, especially in this year, the needs of the disabled. The new signs will include a warning sign for a crossing point frequently used by the disabled. I hope that that will prove helpful.

Mr. Stephen Ross

Will the Secretary of State look at clause 2 of the Disabled Persons Bill promoted by the hon. Member for Caernarvon (Mr. Wigley) to determine whether he can give some power to local authorities to adopt legal rights to prevent members of the public deliberately parking on double yellow lines in areas reserved for the disabled?

Mr. Fowler

That is something that the Government have suggested.

Mr. McQuarrie

When my right hon. Friend is considering the new road signs, will he bear in mind the areas where certain languages—for example, Gaelic and Welsh—are spoken? In order to prevent vandalism, will he ensure that the new signs appear in both English and the language of the area?

Mr. Fowler

I shall take that point on board when considering the matter.