MR. CATHCART WASONI beg to ask the president of the Local Government Board if his attention has been called to the Frome's Hill Climb, the speed at 1324 which some of the motors were driven, and the consequent injury to a spectator; and if the Government will see to it that, in future competitions on public roads, due regard will be paid to the provisions of the law and the safety of the public.
The PRESIDENT OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD (Mr. JOHN-BURNS,) BatterseaMy attention has been called to this case. The administration of the law relating to the use of the highway by motor cars is practically in the hands of the local police. From accounts in my possession I gather that the police were present on the occasion referred to, and that they took precautions to safeguard from danger the spectators, who were, moreover, aware that a competition was taking place. I am not myself in a position to take action in cases of this kind.
MR. CATHCART WASONasked whether, in view of the facts, the right hon. Gentleman would not consider with the Home Secretary the desirableness of stopping these trials altogether.
§ MR. JOHN BURNSI will communicate with my right hon. friend. My own personal view is that, except under very special conditions, and in the early morning, no speed or test trials should take place on a public thoroughfare.