HC Deb 15 December 1965 vol 722 cc293-5W
126. Mr. J. H. Osborn

asked the Minister of Transport if he will make arrangements to distribute transparencies of the new international road and traffic signs for sticking on vehicle windscreens; and whether he will issue these, either on request or otherwise, to applicants renewing either vehicle or driving licences.

Mr. Tom Fraser

No. This would tend to obscure the driver's vision. A satisfactory alternative—a sixpenny booklet called "The New Traffic Signs"—is already available.

132. Mr. Robert Edwards

asked the Minister of Transport what steps he is taking to inform motorists of the meaning of the new international traffic signs which are being incorporated into Great Britain's road system.

Mr. Tom Fraser

A continuing education campaign to coincide with the period of changeover from old to new road signs was started more than a year ago and is increasing in volume.

More than 200,000 visitors have so far seen the Ministry's mobile exhibition touring the main towns of England and Wales. The Ministry's official booklet illustrating the signs and road markings has been bought by about 3 million road users, while another 1½ million copies of the booklet have been distributed free to learner drivers, cycle and motor cycle trainees and overseas visitors. 200,000 copies a month are being distributed free in this way. A reprint of a further 2 million copies of the booklet is planned. More than 75,000 posters illustrating the signs and advertising the booklet have been displayed and a reprint of 40,000 is in hand.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has distributed more than 3 million copies of a leaflet illustrating a selection of the signs; and half a million copies of a new smaller version, designed to fit into driving licence envelopes and pay packets, are being distributed. The Society has also sold 65,000 copies of a large wall chart for use in schools, garages, hotels, libraries etc., and nearly 15,000 copies of a smaller wall chart suitable for young children.

Manufacturers, trade associations and motoring organisations are co-operating generously. An oil company has financed and produced a series of television films which are now being shown by B.B.C. and I.T.A. in "public service time". New road maps, diaries and calendars include the signs. Many advertisers are featuring the signs in their television and Press advertisements, literature and packaging material. Other publicity outlets range from tea towels and serviettes incorporating the signs to games and toys marketed by manufacturers.

All this, together with the very generous coverage given—and still being given—by the Press, radio and television, adds up to a very considerable effort to educate the road-using public.

Rear-Admiral Morgan Giles

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will take further steps to inform the public of the meaning of the new road signs.

Mr. Tom Fraser

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to my Answer to the hon. Member for Bridgwater (Sir G. Wills) on 10th December.