HC Deb 16 May 1989 vol 153 cc114-5W
Mr. Mans

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has for further provision of emergency telephones on all-purpose trunk roads.

Mr. Peter Bottomley

Over 5,000 calls have been made from emergency telephones on the A180 trunk road between Brigg and Grimsby since they were installed in March 1988. The heavy use demonstrates their value.

The Department is now to embark on an initial programme of further provision of over 140 emergency telephones at priority sites on selected lengths of the A1, A2, A45, A46, A303 and A604 trunk roads.

This programme will help all motorists, particularly vulnerable drivers, including those travelling alone or at night. The Department also works closely with disability and motoring organisations to promote better emergency and breakdown provision for those unable to leave their cars to use the telephone.

Further schemes will be added to the programme as the opportunity arises.