Examination of Witnesses (Questions 4400-443)
RT HON
JOHN SPELLAR,
KATE MCMAHON
AND ADRIAN
WADDAMS
WEDNESDAY 27 FEBRUARY 2002
440. But this is specifically in Hull.
(Ms McMahon) I do not know whether that one is specifically
being monitored.
Chairman: Please look at that and give us a
note.
Chris Grayling
441. Finally, on 30 mph speed indications, can
I ask for your view on repeater signs and whether you will support
a move to give authority to the right to use them, and also why
it is legal to have great big expensive painted signs on the road
but not repeater signs and whether you plan to change that?
(Mr Spellar) It is an issue raised from a number of
areas and one that I want to look at. I understand the argument
from the historic perspective but I think in a number of areas—particularly,
as I indicated earlier, where there have been changes in speed
limits and therefore people have got driving habits on those particular
roads—that is a particular issue that I am going to be looking
at, but also the broader issue about repeater signs at 30 mph,
but I have not come to a conclusion on that.
442. So no chance of the Government backing
the Bill then!
(Mr Spellar) There are arguments on both sides, and
I want to evaluate both the views and the evidence and the cost
benefit of this as well.
443. The other issue is horses and the use of
cameras and warning signs. In a constituency like mine, there
is an issue over horses and cars using the same roads and people
going round narrow country corners too fast and meeting a horse.
What do you have in mind for improving the issue as regards safety
of horses and riders on the roads?
(Mr Spellar) This is not an issue in Smethwick but
I will ask the officials!
Chairman: I think it would be helpful if you
would look at the use of bridlepaths and the use of rural roads
by horses and riders and whether it is possible to find a useful
form of division, and let the Committee have a note. Thank you
very much, Mr Spellar. You have been, as you always are, most
helpful and informative.
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