HC Deb 24 October 1961 vol 646 c75W
Mr. Smithers

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware of the nuisance caused in the village of Ovington, near Alresford, Hampshire, by an all-night motor trial on 19th March, 1960, and by a motor cycle trial on Sunday, 30th July; whether he is aware that the lane from Avington to Ovington is extremely dangerous for such a purpose; and whether he will now take steps to see that in future such trials are routed upon suitable roads.

Mr. Marples

I have not received any complaints about the motor and motor cycle trials held in Ovington. There is no evidence before me to show that the lane from Avington to Ovington is more dangerous when used by drivers taking part in trials than when used by drivers travelling independently. For the most part the organisers of trials co-operate voluntarily with the police and motoring organisations in the conduct of these events; I have recently had this matter under examination, and have come to the conclusion that I should not, at present, be justified in seeking powers to enable me to specify the roads on which such trials should be held.