§ 53. Sir FRANCIS BLAKEasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that when the driver of a motor car is charged in Court with causing material or bodily injuries it is frequently made a ground of defence or mitigation that he has suffered from shell shock or from some injury likely to affect his nerves; and whether, for the protection of the public, he will consider the desirability of issuing Regulations imposing upon local authorities the duty of making inquiries as to the history of applicants for drivers' licences and for the passing of a test of fitness to drive a car or other mechanically propelled vehicle?
§ Sir E. GEDDESThe points raised in my hon. Friend's question are being considered among other matters connected with the regulation of road vehicles. Legislation would be required.
§ Mr. BILLINGHas not the time come when anybody desiring to drive a motor car should pass some sort of examination?
§ Sir E. GEDDESAs the matter has been referred to a Committee, whatever my own personal views are, I would rather get their report first.
§ Mr. BILLINGIf the Committee recommend that there should be a test of fitness, will the right hon. Gentleman adopt it?
§ Sir E. GEDDESI would rather see what the Committee recommend.
§ Sir F. BLAKEIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that in actions for causing personal injuries the defence which is continually being set up is that the driver suffers from shell-shock or some other, injury likely to affect his nerves?