HC Deb 24 February 1986 vol 92 c662
8. Mr. Gerald Bowden

asked the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects the proposed draft amendments to the Highways (Road Humps) Regulations 1983 to be put before the House.

Mr. Peter Bottomley

As soon as possible.

Mr. Bowden

Will my hon. Friend take note of the anxiety felt by many of my constituents, especially those who live in Court lane, Dulwich where the delay in implementing the regulations has meant that many serious accidents have taken place and that the residents are in fear of life and limb because of the speed of traffic on that road? I am delighted that the regulations will be implemented as soon as possible.

Mr. Bottomley

I have seen the correspondence that my hon. Friend had with my predecessor, and I am aware of the leading role played by Mr. Sholem. Road humps are not the only way to reduce vehicle speeds. It is well worth while for local authorities to look at other ways of reducing the danger that clearly exists.

Mr. Simon Hughes

Given that consultation was originally due to take place last autumn with the amended regulations being laid before the House in the early part of 1986, will the Minister give an assurance that consultation will start within a matter of days, and that the regulations will be laid before the end of the spring? It is not only in Southwark, which the hon. Member for Dulwich (Mr. Bowden) and I represent, that the amendment of these regulations will be greatly beneficial. I am sure that the Minister will support them. Will he ensure that his Department moves quickly?

Mr. Bottomley

The hon. Gentleman gets it slightly wrong, because when we are dealing with complex and controversial subjects it may be better to take weeks rather than days. If I can begin consultation by Easter, it will be possible to lay the regulations before the House by the summer.

Mr. Gregory

Will my hon. Friend pursue the possibility of issuing a circular to local authorities to encourage the greater use of speed humps, which in medieval cities such as York would certainly stop heavy vehicles from making short cuts through residential areas and avoiding the proper routes?

Mr. Bottomley

I shall give the consideration that my hon. Friend requests, but humps are not the only way and are not always the most satisfactory way of reducing excessive speed.