SPEED RESTRICTION ON DUAL CARRIAGE-WAY SECTIONS (Bukit Timah Road)

Mr John Ede asked the Minister for Communications and Works whether he will consider lifting the 30 m.p.h. speed restriction on the dual carriage-way sections of Bukit Timah Road and imposing it on other sections.

Mr Francis Thomas: The power to impose speed limits rests with the Commissioner of Police and with the City Council or Rural Board as the case may be. It is peripheral to my Ministry and not central.

I understand that the Commissioner of Police considers that the present speed limits on the Bukit Timah Road, and indeed in other parts of the rural areas should be re-examined to see how far they should be extended or removed, and before arriving at any conclusions, the police have it in mind to consult responsible bodies such as the Automobile Association, the Singapore Safety First Council, and the rural district committees.

Mr John Ede: Is the Minister aware that the speed restriction along these dual carriage-ways is not being respected, and will he not agree that it is now safe and sensible to travel at more than 30 miles an hour?

Mr Francis Thomas rose -

Mr Speaker: Order, please. The second part is a matter of opinion. You need not answer if you do not wish to, Mr Thomas.

Mr Francis Thomas: Mr Speaker, Sir, I was going to say the same! I am aware that it is not always respected.