Road Vehicles (Lighting).

Oral Answers to Questions — Transport. – in the House of Commons at on 8 July 1924.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Sir Frederick Penny Sir Frederick Penny , Kingston upon Thames

44.

asked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been drawn to the recent death of George Gilbert, of Feltham, owing to a motorcyclist running into the back of the pony trap which he was driving and which had no rear light, and that the motorist was censured for not keeping a sufficiently good look-out; and whether he can inform the House if it has yet been decided to introduce legislation making it compulsory for reflectors to be carried on the off-side of all motor vehicles and rear lights or red reflectors on all road vehicles, and, as far as possible, prevent happenings of this nature?

Photo of Mr Harry Gosling Mr Harry Gosling , Stepney Whitechapel and St George's

My attention has not been drawn to the accident referred to by the hon. Member, but if he will furnish me with further details I will consider whether I can usefully make any inquiries into the matter. I am not satisfied that the carrying of reflecting mirrors by all motor vehicles should be made compulsory. I agree, however, that amending legislation is required with regard to the lighting of road vehicles, and that a general Bill dealing with this matter should be introduced whenever a suitable opportunity occurs.

Photo of Sir Frederick Penny Sir Frederick Penny , Kingston upon Thames

I will certainly bring to the notice of the Minister the particulars he asked for, but did not the Committee which was appointed to consider the regulation of road traffic report favourably as regards reflectors being carried, saying that if they were not carried it was a source of annoyance and danger?

Mr. W. A. JENKINS:

Will the hon. Gentleman take into consideration the question of introducing legislation making it compulsory that all persons in charge of horses and traffic on the main roads shall be obliged to carry lights?