HC Deb 30 November 1916 vol 88 cc473-4
67. Mr. PRINGLE

asked whether there is any periodical vision test for drivers of vehicles in the Metropolitan area; and, if not, whether he will consider the desirability of instituting such a test, in view of the number of accidents now occurring?

Mr. SAMUEL

Public carriage drivers in the Metropolitan area are required before they are licensed to produce a medical certificate of fitness, in which their fitness as to sight is considered. After they reach the age of fifty years a certificate of fitness is required either quinquennially or as often as the licensing authority may deem necessary. For drivers generally I have no power to impose any test.

Mr. PRINGLE

Does the right hon. Gentleman not think it is advisable to have some test in view of the large number of accidents now occurring?

Mr. SAMUEL

I am not sure that it is so much a question of eyesight as more light.

Mr. PRINGLE

Will he inquire as to whether the eyesight has been found de fective in many instances?

Mr. SAMUEL

That is not in accordance with the report of the Chief Commissioner.

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