HC Deb 18 June 1984 vol 62 cc4-5
4. Mr. Janner

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what steps he is taking to reduce the delay caused by roadworks on the M1 in the east midlands.

The Minister of State, Department of Transport (Mrs. Lynda Chalker)

All possible steps to reduce delays are being taken. Roadworks are carefully phased in relatively short sections with reasonable gaps in between. Delays generally occur only in peak periods after road traffic accidents.

Mr. Janner

Is the Minister aware that eight deaths have occurred recently because of accidents on the M1 due to road works at contraflow areas? All of them were near Leicester and the latest was yesterday. How long will this terrifying toll of tragedy be allowed to continue? While it does continue, will the Minister warn motorists to exercise extra care in contraflow areas and to keep a much greater distance behind other vehicles, including mine?

Mrs. Chalker

I much regret the deaths that have taken place. The hon. and learned Gentleman is right to say that many accidents occur because motorists go through a contraflow section at too great a speed. Warning speed limits of 50 mph are posted. Motorists also bunch up far too closely behind the vehicles in front. Whenever that happens, there is a grave danger of an accident and, therefore, of personal injury. In every press notice that I have put out in the past two and a quarter years I have warned about the need to keep a fair distance behind the vehicle in front and for motorists to obey the warning instructions. I hope that motorists will take heed of this awful death toll.

Mr. Higgins

Is the limit to which my hon. Friend refers legally enforceable? Will she clarify the position, because there is some doubt whether speed limits on rather unofficial-looking signs are enforceable?

Mrs. Chalker

The speed limit written in black on a white background with a black border is advisory. Before one can introduce a speed limit on any road, one must apply for orders. An objection period is necessary and the whole process could take longer than the road works to which it applies. I have asked officials if there is any other way of enforcing such a speed limit, but I have not yet found one.