§ 2.43 p.m.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government whether tests on crash barriers and anti-dazzle netting on trunk roads and motorways are complete, and if so, whether Her Majesty's Government intend to install these barriers on motorways.]
§ THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT (LORD CHESHAM)No, My Lords. Experiments with a metal mesh anti-dazzle screen are being carried out on M.1 and have been for some time. The evidence so far of its effect in reducing accidents is insufficient to warrant its extension or its installation on other motorways. To test the value of crash barriers in motorway central reserves, two 9-mile lengths of double steel rail safety fence are being installed on M.1.
LORD FARINGDONMy Lords, I wonder whether the noble Lord is aware that, as a result of Continental experience on this type of road, it is thought that possibly the best method of restraining cars that run off the road and for anti-dazzle purposes is the plantation of shrubs, in particular, I believe, certain rose trees.
§ LORD CHESHAMYes, my Lords, we were aware of that. Experiments have been going on, using hessian sacking to simulate planting, to find out what is the most effective height and density of the planting. Unfortunately, Rosa Multiflora Japonica, which is much used, is not known to have the necessary resistance to diesel fumes, salt spray and root interference with the central drains. We hope to find something in due course; but meanwhile it is not a case of "roses, roses all the way".
§ LORD AIREDALEMy Lords, how about brambles, brambles, brambles?
§ BARONESS WOOTTON OF ABINGERMy Lords, has the noble Lord taken into 636 account American experience in this matter, where, I understand, a type of rose tree has been utilised which not only is extremely effective in providing a screen against dazzle but also does not cause anybody who unfortunately is flung into it to be filled with rose thorns?
§ LORD CHESHAMYes, my Lords; we certainly have availed ourselves of that experience. The point is that they have much more space in America; they build their roads much wider than ours; but in this country it does not seem that there is room for rose hedges sufficiently thick to provide an adequate barrier into which to run.
LORD FARINGDONMy Lords, can the noble Lord tell us when we may hope that some plantation will take place?
§ LORD CHESHAMMy Lords, I cannot put any time on it. Experiment and research is going on to find a suitable shrub that has the resistant properties I have mentioned.
LORD REAMy Lords, if it is not too wide of the Question, might I ask whether consideration has been given to the compulsory use of yellow headlamp bulbs, as on the Continent, which reduces dazzle?
§ LORD CHESHAMMy Lords, we have considered that point; I have mentioned it in this House several times. Furthermore, it is too wide of the Question.