§ 12. Sir GERALD STRICKLANDasked the Home Secretary when he proposes to take action to check the issue of motor licences to blind, deaf, and otherwise dangerous drivers?
§ The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)I have been asked to reply to this question. As I have previously stated, I have the general question of the issue of driving licences to persons suffering from physical disabilities under consideration in connection with the Bill for the better regulation of road vehicles referred to in the Gracious Speech from the Throne.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he subscribes to this description of all deaf drivers as dangerous? Is he aware that many deaf men are extremely intelligent and have excellent sight, and that any man driving certain vehicles is deafened by the noise?
§ Colonel ASHLEYAs I am somewhat deaf myself, I entirely subscribe to the hon. and gallant Member's statement.
§ Sir G. STRICKLANDDoes this mean that this is the reason why the same answer has been given after 12 months?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI have been considering it.