THE DUKE OF ATHOLLMy Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government how many miles of trunk roads in England and Wales, and Scotland, are still unfenced; and whether there are statistics available of the number of accidents caused by animals straying on to such roads.]
§ LORD MOWBRAY AND STOURTONMy Lords, the information is not readily available. To obtain it would require disproportionate expenditure.
THE DUKE OF ATHOLLMy Lords, I can hardly thank my noble friend for that Answer. May I ask whether Her Majesty's Government will consider entering into talks with the appropriate organisation to find a way acceptable to all parties for fencing these roads, bearing in mind that on occasion "creeps" have to be provided under them for sheep, and also bearing in mind that the animals were there long before these roads became so dangerous?
§ LORD MOWBRAY AND STOURTONMy Lords, Her Majesty's Government are always willing to enter into any discussions with any highway authorities who so wish. No significant safety factor has been brought to the notice of the Department. In open country the motorist is warned by notices that animals might stray, and it is up to the motorist to use caution.