PATROLLING TRAFFIC

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29766, 8 March 1962, Page 7

PATROLLING TRAFFIC

Officers More Conspicuous tN Z. Press Association) WELLINGTON, March 7. Traffic officers on patrol would be made more conspicuous, the Minister of Transport (Mr McAlpine! said today. Cars and motor-cycles will carry special plates bearing the word “traffic.” Existing cars are being replaced by white-topped vehicles and will be fitted with red flashing roof-top lights for emergency work. Motor-cycle patrols will have their present blue helmets changed to more conspicuous white ones. “There is nothing secretive about the work of traffic officers,’’ said Mr McAlpine. “It is not the Government's policy to have traffic men lurking in side streets. “On the contrary. I believe that the patrols should work openly in full view of the public where they will serve as a reminder of the need to drive sensibly and safely. We are not out to achieve records in traffic penalties, or to bolster the State's coffers through fines but out to educate road users and try to reduce road accidents. “By patrolling the roads at leisurely speeds and stopping frequently to watch traffic at known points of hazard, traffic officers will do two things: they will set an example in the safe use of our highways, and they will more readily check driving faults among those who exceed their privileges on the road. “Nevertheless, it must be clearly understood that those who flagrantly break the law. knowing officers are on patrol in this way, can expect little mercy if they are caught,” Mr McAlpine said.