HC Deb 31 October 1956 vol 558 cc165-6W
87. Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he will replace all "Go Slow" with "Stop" signs at major roads.

Mr. Watkinson

No. "Halt at Major Road Ahead" signs, which carry a penalty for disobedience, are used only at junctions where the driver's view into the major road is restricted and it is essential for all traffic from the side road to come to a standstill before emerging on to the major road. If more widely used, their effectiveness and their value as a safety measure would decline.

92. Mr. Janner

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he is aware of the criticism of the proposal contained in the draft Traffic Signs (Size, Colour and Type) Regulations and General Directions for separate signs to denote school and children, and of the designs themselves ; and what action he proposes to take to meet the objections.

Mr. Watkinson

There have long been different signs to denote "School" and "Children," although both have used the same torch symbol. The circumstances in which "School" and "Children" signs are used are different and, although there have been criticisms, I think it appropriate that the signs should also be different.

Mr. Janner

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation when he proposes to make the Traffic Signs (Size, Colour and Type) Regulations and General Directions ; from how many organisations he received comment ; how many comments were received ; and how many were acted upon.

Mr. Watkinson

I hope to make these regulations early in the New Year to come into effect at the same time as Section 35 of the Road Traffic Act, 1956, which modifies the relevant law. Fifty-six organisations were consulted and more than two hundred suggestions received, about a third of which I intend to adopt.