§ 15. Mr. Peter Bruinvelsasked the Secretary of State for Transport whether he has received any representations in favour of lighting all remaining sections of the M25; and what offers he has received from lighting companies about lighting the motorway.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyWe have received a number of representations, including a press release with a covering letter from a lighting manufacturer.
§ Mr. BruinvelsIs my hon. Friend aware that 26 people have lost their lives on the M25 since it was opened? Is he further aware that a number of companies such as Philips are showing interest in taking over lighting on the M25, because only 40 miles are lit and 80 miles are unlit? Will the Minister consider proposals by any lighting company making a bid to undertake the complete lighting on the M25, because lighting saves lives? Is my hon. Friend aware that non-lighting fatalities cost £206,000 per person?
§ Mr. BottomleyMy hon. Friend will be happy to know that I am shortly to meet representatives of the company which he named. As a Right-winger like myself, in terms of value for public money, my hon. Friend will know that even the most inspired reaction to European Road Safety Year and Energy Efficiency Year should not preclude any lighting proposals going out to competitive tender.