Royal Parks (Road Accidents)

Oral Answers to Questions — Public Building and Works – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 29 April 1968.

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Photo of Mr Ronald Russell Mr Ronald Russell , Wembley South 12:00, 29 April 1968

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works if he will state the number of pedestrians killed or injured by vehicles in the Royal Parks in any convenient recent period.

Photo of Mr Robert Mellish Mr Robert Mellish , Bermondsey

One pedestrian was killed, 12 were seriously injured and 16 slightly injured in the year 1967.

Photo of Mr Ronald Russell Mr Ronald Russell , Wembley South

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are very few facilities for pedestrians to cross the road in the Royal Parks? There are no pedestrian crossings—only police officers at infrequent intervals and at certain times of the day. Might not that be a cause of these accidents?

Photo of Mr Robert Mellish Mr Robert Mellish , Bermondsey

I am not complacent about these figures. May I put it to the hon. Member that zebra crossings and other traffic control paraphernalia in the Royal Parks run counter to the desire of most people who go into the Parks—which is to be quiet and to get some rest? If I had my way I would keep all motorists and all motor cars out of the Parks.

Photo of Mr Anthony Royle Mr Anthony Royle , Richmond (Surrey)

Will the Minister give an assurance that he has no intention of putting pedestrian crossings or other such paraphernalia in Richmond Park?

Photo of Mr Robert Mellish Mr Robert Mellish , Bermondsey

I have no such intention.