HC Deb 20 April 1983 vol 41 cc278-9
10. Mr. Greenway

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what recent representations he has received about the time allowed to cross roads at pedestrian crossings controlled by traffic lights.

Mrs. Chalker

I have recently received representations from my hon. Friend and the hon. Member for Ealing, Southall (Mr. Bidwell). I am glad to tell my hon. Friend that we have just issued revised pelican regulations for consultation. They, and the revised departmental advice that we shall issue, will improve both the timing and the phasing for pedestrians at such crossings.

Mr. Greenway

I warmly welcome my hon. Friend's reply. Is she aware of the GLC's dangerous incompetence in managing pelican crossings, as with many other things? Is she further aware that I have frequently attempted to cross Greenford and Mandeville roads with old people and young mothers with young children and found it impossible to do so without running? Will she put all the steam that she can behind the GLC and her Department to make sure that the crossings are suitably phased to allow people to cross without danger?

Ms. Chalker

The proposals were issued on 12 April. They recommend a variation in timing according to the width of the road for the benefit of those who find it more difficult to get moving when the lights change. We expect that the suggested two-second increase in the steady green man time will take account of the delays that we have noted and that an overlap of part of the flashing green man signal with part of the red signal to traffic will afford greater safety to the old and vulnerable.

Mr. Stott

Will the Minister take this opportunity to repudiate the comments of her hon. Friend the Member for Ealing, North (Mr. Greenway)? Is she aware that the GLC used the powers that are available to it to extend the maximum period for the green man and that permission to alter the timing must be given by the Department of Transport? It is the Department of Transport, not the GLC, that makes those regulations. Therefore, will the Minister take this opportunity to repudiate her hon. Friend's allegations?

Mr. Greenway

The GLC has made no effort in the matter.

Mrs. Chalker

Far be it from me to take responsibility for what my hon. Friends, or any other hon. Members, say in the House. I can confirm that the Department must make a change in the regulations that cover phasing. It is, however, up to each local authority to adjust the timing to improve safety on the roads.