§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to amend the law to permit lollipop ladies to assist pre-school children across roads.
§ Mr. KeyNone. Sections 26 and 28 of the Road Traffic Act 1984 empower school crossing patrols to stop traffic at places where408W
children cross roads on their way to or from school, or from one part of a school to another".The words "children" and "school" are not defined. The interpretation of the law is a matter for the courts, but it would seem that the legislation would not prevent school crossing partrols from escorting children to or from an educational institution that provides education or instruction to children of no pre-determined minimum age. This would include a nursery school or play group. It is, however, for appropriate authorities to decide their own policy in this matter, consulting their own legal advisers as necessary.