§ Mr. McMahonasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will issue a circular to authorities with the responsibility for transport (a) encouraging greater use of push-button road crossings where they can benefit the elderly and children and (b) suggesting that the period allowed for pedestrians to cross the road at such crossings should be adequate for all users.
§ Mrs. ChalkerWe already issue advice to local authorities. Where numbers of elderly or infirm pedestrians wish to cross the road, a pelican crossing is preferable to a zebra. However, young children cannot be expected to use crossings safely if unsupervised. Where their age and number would warrant a school crossing patrol and if a crossing is generally needed, local authorities should consider providing both a crossing and a patrol.
The timings recommended for pelican crossings allow for pedestrians who move at considerably less than average crossing speed. However, following some encouraging experiments with timing and phasing, the Pelican regulations and the advice issued to local authorities have been under review. We hope to begin public consultation on revised regulations shortly.