HC Deb 22 May 1973 vol 857 cc52-3W
Mr. Tinn

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will publish figures for any recent convenient period showing the number of accidents involving vehicles and farm animals on roads.

Mr. Peyton

The information is not available in the form requested, but in 1972 there were 860 accidents involving human injury on rural roads in which the presence of an animal on the road, other than a dog, was reported. Most of these animals are thought to have been farm animals. No information is available about accidents not involving human injury.

Mr. Tinn

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will bring forward proposals for improving road safety at points where farm animals have to cross public roads.

Mr. Peyton

I have put forward some proposals to the National Farmers' Union, which has welcomed them in principle.

Mr. Tinn

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what are the criteria used to determine whether an underpass or an overpass is provided for the safe passage of farm animals when road improvement schemes or new road proposals are being considered.

Mr. Peyton

Each case is considered on its merits, taking into account any alternative means of access, the cost of paying compensation where appropriate, road safety and the national agricultural interest.

Mr. Tinn

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations have been received by the Regional Director of the Northern Traffic Area from the National Farmers' Union on behalf of Mr. R. E. Dixon of Upsall Grange Farm whose dairy herd will suffer increased risk twice daily whilst crossing the road as a consequence of the road improvement scheme on the A171 between Upsall roundabout and Crossed Keys Inn; and what reply has been sent.

Mr. Peyton

The National Farmers' Union wrote to the Northern Regional Office on 18th April 1973 requesting that an underpass or overbridge be provided for Mr. Dickson. I understand that it also wrote in similar terms to North Riding County Council, which is the highway authority responsible for the A171. It has been told that the matter is under consideration by the county council.