HL Deb 03 December 1963 vol 253 cc899-900

2.45 p.m.

LORD LUCAS OF CHILWORTH

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the second Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

[The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government when the traffic light-controlled pedestrian crossings in Piccadilly, promised in a Government statement on June 17 last, will be operating.]

LORD CHESHAM

My Lords, my right honourable friend understands that Westminster City Council expect to receive the controllers for these pedestrian signals next month. He has asked the Council to install the crossings as soon as practicable thereafter, but they are unable at present to give a date of operation.

LORD LUCAS OF CHILWORTH

My Lords, may I thank the noble Lord for the helpfulness of his reply. They are in sight. Might I ask the noble Lord whether he will give the House his assurance that the erection of these traffic lights in Piccadilly, which are necessary for the safety of the lives and limbs of those who have to cross Piccadilly from one side to the other, will not be delayed until his Ministry, the Ministry of Housing and Local Government and the L.C.C. have decided the future of Piccadilly Circus?

LORD CHESHAM

My Lords, there is no question of that. There is no connection at all.