Road Traffic (Rules).

Oral Answers to Questions — Palestine – in the House of Commons am ar 11 Gorffennaf 1922.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Lieut-Colonel Martin Archer-Shee Lieut-Colonel Martin Archer-Shee , Finsbury

41.

asked the Home Secretary by whose authority the Safety-first Council has placarded London with orders to the public to keep to the left; and whether, in view of the confusion in the public mind, caused by the conflict of opinion on this point between various public bodice, he will advise the setting up of a Select Committee to inquire into the whole question of rules of the road, and as to whether it would be advisable to change the rule of the road for vehicles to keep to the right, as is the case in most civilised countries in the world, and which is also the rule at sea and in the air?

Photo of Mr Edward Shortt Mr Edward Shortt , Newcastle upon Tyne West

I have no information on the first part of the question. With regard to the second part, I am not aware of any necessity for changing the present rule of the road for vehicles which is laid down by Statute, and I do not propose to take any steps in the matter.

Photo of Lieut-Colonel Martin Archer-Shee Lieut-Colonel Martin Archer-Shee , Finsbury

In view of the fact that there is no statutory rule of the road for pedestrians, and of the increasing volume of motor traffic in the country, would it not be well to have a Committee to inquire into the advisability of introducing legislation?

Photo of Mr Edward Shortt Mr Edward Shortt , Newcastle upon Tyne West

That is another matter which I will consider.

Photo of Lieut-Colonel Martin Archer-Shee Lieut-Colonel Martin Archer-Shee , Finsbury

Does not it arise out of the first part of my question? In view of the fact that there are three contradictory rules issued by all sorts of people all over the country which are creating disorder, would it not be well to have a proper Statute on the subject?

Photo of Mr Edward Shortt Mr Edward Shortt , Newcastle upon Tyne West

There are no rules at all. What you see on the pavement is entirely a voluntary effort.

Photo of Lieut-Colonel Martin Archer-Shee Lieut-Colonel Martin Archer-Shee , Finsbury

Is it hot illegal to write on the pavement? If it is not illegal, should I be in order in writing "L.G.M.G." on the pavement?