HC Deb 13 July 1908 vol 192 cc407-8
MR. HAROLD COX (Preston)

I beg to ask the President of the Local Government Board whether his attention has been called to the recent death of a clerk in the Foreign Office, who was killed by a mechanically-propelled vehicle in Whitehall; and whether the Government will take immediate steps to restrict all vehicles on public highways to a speed which is reasonably consistent with the safety of the lives and limbs of His Majesty's subjects.

THE PRESIDENT OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD (Mr. JOHN BURNS,) Battersea

I have seen a newspaper report of the inquest in this case. I do not gather that the vehicle was driven at an excessive speed, but the jury appear to have considered that there was a certain amount of neligence on the part of the driver. I would point out to my hon. friend that if any person drives a motor car on a public highway recklessly or neligently, or at a speed or in a manner which is dangerous to the public, he renders himself liable to penalties under the existing law.

MR. CATHCART WASON (Orkney and Shetland)

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that last week a woman was dragged fifty yards by a motor car, and that the abuse of driving is continually going on all over the country; and will he consult with the Prime Minister and the Government as to whether they will not exclude the Motor Cars Act, 1903, from the Expiring Laws Continuance Act.

*MR. SPEAKER

The hon. Member should give notice of that Question.

MR. B. S. STRAUS (Tower Hamlets, Mile End)

Is it not a fact that it is impossible for the Act of Parliament just quoted to be of any service in this matter, as it is not possible to prove what is dangerous to the public?

*MR. SPEAKER

Notice should be given of that Question also.