HC Deb 03 March 1926 vol 192 cc1434-5
78. Mr. GRACE

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is prepared to introduce legislation to compel motorists to insure against third-party risk?

Colonel ASHLEY

I am considering this point, at any rate in so far as public service vehicles are concerned, in connection with the Road Vehicles Bill, which I hope to introduce.

Mr. GRACE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that if a pedestrian is knocked down by a rich motorist, he gets compensation, But if by a motorist who is a man of straw and uninsured, the man gets nothing at all? Does the right hon. Gentleman consider that right?

Colonel ASHLEY

I informed my hon. Friend in my answer that I am considering this point in connection with the Bill which I hope to introduce.

Mr. MONTAGUE

Will the right hon. Gentleman take into consideration the fact that very large numbers of commercial travellers use cars, not in the ordinary way, but for their employers. So that this is a point of considerable interest?

Colonel ASHLEY

That raises the question as to whether you should insure the driver or the car.