HC Deb 26 November 1925 vol 188 cc1576-7
39. Mr. B. SMITH

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the case of George John Hicklin, who was dismissed for not driving a motor omnibus fast enough; and whether he proposes to take legislative action to make employers responsible who systematically incite their employés to exceed the speed limit?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

The attention of my right hon. Friend has not previously been drawn to this particular case. Steps taken by proprietors to see that drivers maintain the scheduled services, so far as practicable, do not necessarily involve any incitement to drive at excessive speeds. I would remind the hon. Member that it is already an offence to incite another to commit a summary offence, and that, if the Criminal Justice Bill pass into law, such an offence will be liable to be dealt with summarily.

Mr. SMITH

If, as the hon. Gentleman says, powers already exist for dealing with incitement, does the propose to take action against this particular proprietor, and is he aware that it is a common practice in London for men to be incited to exceed the speed limit under the threat of dismissal?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

I do not think it has been proved that this was incitement.

Mr. SMITH

The magistrate was satisfied on the point, and for that reason reduced the fine by half.