HC Deb 22 November 1927 vol 210 cc1623-4W
Mr. NAYLOR

asked the Minister of Health (1) whether he is aware. of the effects on public health ,of the noise made by motor traffic and of the correspondence which has recently appeared on the subject; and whether he will consider the advisability of promoting an inquiry into its results;

(2) whether he will endeavour to ascertain, by inquiry through our diplomatic and consular representatives, what measures have been taken by foreign countries and municipalities to deal with the nuisance arising from traffic and other noises; and whether he will issue a summary of such information in the form of a White Paper?

Sir K. WOOD

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to a previous similar question put by the hon. Member for Dewsbury (Mr. Riley), of which I am sending him a copy. It does not appear to my right hon. Friend, as at present advised, that there would be advantage in the further investigations and inquiries which the hon. Member suggests.

Mr. RILEY

asked the Minister of Health whether any adequate co-operation exists between his Department and the Ministry of Transport for the joint consideration of problems connected with noises in the public streets; and, if so, what is the nature of such co-operation?

Sir K. WOOD

There is no definite arrangement between my right hon. Friend's Department and the Ministry of Transport for the joint consideration of these problems, and, in view of the many more urgent matters calling for attention on public health grounds, I should not think it justifiable, as at present advised, to set on foot any special action in this matter.

Mr. RILEY

asked the Minister of Health whether he is prepared, in conjunction with the Minister of Transport, to offer some inducement, such as a prize, for an improved type of motor horn which, while capable of giving adequate warning to pedestrians, will not startle them by producing unnecessarily disagreeable sounds?

Sir K. WOOD

As at present advised, my right hon. Friend is not prepared to initiate any action in this direction.