HC Deb 22 April 1991 vol 189 cc348-9W
21. Mr. Flynn

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has for improving and extending the lighting on the M4 and other motorways.

Mr. Chope

The lighting requirements on all motorways in England, including the M4, are kept under continuous review. Plans are in hand for more lighting on the Ml, M5, M20, M40, M56 and on the M62. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Wales is responsible for the M4 motorway in Wales.

Mr. Flynn

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is his most recent estimate of the potential safety improvements and increased capacity of motorways resulting from the installation of lighting.

Mr. Chope

Research in this country and elsewhere has shown that the average reduction in night-time accidents attributable to road lighting is about 30 per cent. There is, however, substantial variation between locations, depending on type of road and other factors. Evidence is not available on the effect of lighting on motorway capacity.