§ 2. Mr. Bowdenasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he has had any results from the experiments on the timing of pelican crossings which he authorised.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Mr. Kenneth Clarke)The experimental changes are still being studied for their effects for pedestrian and traffic safety. Preliminary indications suggest that some change may be justified. I wish, however, to see fuller results, expected in the spring of next year, before deciding whether any alterations to pelican signal timings or their phases are desirable.
§ Mr. BowdenI thank my hon. and learned Friend for that reply, but will he bear in mind the real problems of the elderly and disabled, particularly since, once the green man starts to flash on the pelican crossing, motorists start to rev up, which frightens elderly people and can intimidate the disabled?
§ Mr. ClarkeThe timings are fixed to take account of the pace at which elderly and disabled people move. I agree with my hon. Friend that the problem is that many do not realise that they still have priority when the green man starts to flash. However, we have to experiment carefully because we have to make sure that any changes are as safe as the present arrangements.
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. Before I call question No. 3, I remind hon. Members that they must avoid the sub judice clash that is possible on this question.