M60: Road Signs and Markings

Andrew Gwynne
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when the vehicles of Highways Agency staff on the M60 were provided with matrix signals to instruct traffic; and when they will be authorised to use them.

Dr. Ladyman
Variable message panels were fitted as standard to Traffic Officer Service vehicles prior to patrols starting on the M60 in January 2006. They are already authorised to display some messages to instruct traffic.

Andrew Gwynne
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when Highways Agency traffic officers will be able to use the scrolling arrows provided in their vehicles to direct traffic on the M60.

Dr. Ladyman
The Highways Agency carefully considered the use of scrolling arrows as one of the legends which can be displayed on the variable message panel fitted to the Traffic Officer vehicles. The agency has decided that it is inappropriate to use scrolling arrows at this time. This decision will be kept under review as the Traffic Officer Service develops.

Andrew Gwynne
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport under what (a) section of the Highways Act and (b) associated regulations police officers on the M60 use the scrolling arrow traffic signs in their vehicles to direct traffic.

Dr. Ladyman
The use of light emitting devices is regulated under the Road Traffic Act 1988 by the Road Vehicle Lighting Regulations 1989. Regulation 13 of these regulations permits vehicles used for police purposes to be fitted with a lamp or illuminated sign that emits a flashing light. Scrolling arrow traffic signs are considered to emit a flashing light.