§ 29. Sir WILFRID SUGDENasked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the increasing toll of accidents by motor-cars and motor haulage and the increasing congestion of roads, he will consider proposals for instituting a technical test of driving and engineering for all persons possessing driving licences?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI am disposed to agree with the conclusion arrived at by the Departmental Committee on the Taxation and Regulation of Road Vehicles, as stated in their Second Interim Report, that any advantages which at first sight might appear likely to result from the institution of tests on the lines indicated, would be outweighed by the expense, difficulties and disadvantages inseparable from any such system. I have, however, under consideration in connection with legislation for the better regulation of road vehicles, the question of the issue of drivers' licences to persons suffering from physical disability.
Sir W. SUDDENIn consideration of the fact that from Saturday afternoon to Sunday midnight there were 23 accidents in this country ranging from Aberdeen to Brighton, on the one hand, and from East to West, on the other, seven of them fatal, and in consideration of the fact that there are provided by the Automobile Association definite and exact tests which cover the position, will not the right hon. 1866 Gentleman at once institute protection by these means for the travelling public?
§ Mr. SPEAKERI think the hon. Gentleman is putting the same question again in longer terms.