HC Deb 20 March 1935 vol 299 cc1206-7W
Mr. H. WILLIAMS

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the Corporation of Birmingham propose to make an order giving a direction, under Section 1 (4) of the Road Traffic Act, 1934, that more than 80 unlighted roads within the city boundary shall be deemed to be built-up areas for the purposes of the 30-miles-per-hour speed limit; and what steps he is taking to satisfy himself whether or not such a direction ought to be given?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

I have asked the council to furnish me with specific evidence in support of their desire to continue the speed limit on each unlighted length of road which will be restricted by the Order. In addition, I have asked the council to consider at once whether it would not be desirable to de-restrict the Bristol Road between Rubery and North-field and the Kingsbury Road between Gravelly Hill and the Chester Road and to acquaint me with their views.

Captain P. MACDONALD

asked the Minister of Transport whether it is his intention to ensure that in the case of wide new arterial roads in the provinces the same principles will be applied of de-restrict such roads from the 30-miles-per-liour speed limit as he has applied to arterial roads in the; London traffic area after consultation with the London and Home Counties Traffic Advisory Committee?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Subject to local circumstances and to the views of local authorities, who are primarily responsible, I have endeavoured to ensure that the same principle as applies in the London traffic area should apply throughout the country.

Mr. T. MORRIS

asked the Minister of Transport whether he proposes that borough or county councils shall compile and publish lists of streets in which the 30-mile limit is to be enforced; and whether, in any case, he will make arrangements that, in view of the number of motorists who visit Wales, there shall be some complete statement compiled for their information as to the districts in Wales which come under this regulation?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

The primary indication to the motorist that a road is subject to the speed limit will be the existence on the road of a system of street lighting. In every case the commencement of the limit will be indicated by distinctive signs; and on a road which is lit and is not subject to the speed limit, a sign will be displayed on the lamp-posts along the road. I do not anticipate that drivers will have any difficulty in satisfying themselves as to whether the particular road on which they happen to be is subject to the limit or not.