Metric measurements to be used on road signs for first time

New road signs using both imperial and metric measurements are to be introduced under Government plans. In a move which will anger traditionalists, signs showing height and width restrictions will start to carry measurements in both feet and inches and metres and centimetres. The new-style signs will be introduced as old ones are replaced as part of plans to modernise the road network. But motoring organisations have warned they could lead to confusion. Critics have also expressed concern it could lead to kilometres per hour being introduced on speed signs.

Luke Bosdet, a spokesman for the AA, said: "Motorists and hauliers have got used to seeing signs in feet and inches. In fast moving traffic if they glance up and read the metric metres first, there could be a problem."

The plans follow consultation by the Government on its Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions (TSRGD), which it says is out of date and in need of an overhaul

In a report, the Department of Transport states: "In order to improve road safety and compliance, ministers have decided that the revised TSRGD will no longer prescribe imperial-only height and width limit signs. "Imperial only signs can remain in place only until such time that they become life-expired, or replaced during routine maintenance, at which time the dual-unit equivalent must be used."

A Department for Transport spokesman said: "Displaying dual measures of height and width restrictions make it easier for drivers and are designed to help improve safety on our roads. There are no plans to duplicate any other type of traffic sign.”

Question 1 (2 points) Indicate whether the following statements are true or false and write down which part of the text justifies your answer.

a. Everybody will welcome the new metric measurements on the road.

b. Some people fear that in the future these measurements will be used for speed limit.

c. The Government plans to replace all the old signs now.

d. The purpose of the dual signs is to help drivers to be safe on the road.

Question 2 (2 points) Answer the following questions in your own words.

a. Which signs will become dual?

b. What reactions has the move provoked?

Question 3 (1.5 points) Find words or phrases in the text that correspond in meaning to the words and definitions given.

a. Rage (par.1)                          b. Worry ( par.1)                   c. Old-fashioned (par.3)     

d. order the use (par.4)               e. Show ( par.5)                          

Question 4 (1.5 points) Complete the following sentences without changing the meaning.

a. The Department of Transport will replace some road signs because they are out-of-date.

If ………………………………………………………………

b. "Motorists and hauliers have got used to seeing signs in feet and inches. In fast moving  traffic if they glance up and read the metric metres first, there will be a problem."

Luke Bosdet said that …………………………………..

c. We will keep imperial only signs until they become life-expired.

Imperial …………………………………………………….

           

Question 5 (3 points) Write a short essay (120-150 words) on the following topic:

Do you think cars should be banned from city centres? Explain your answer.