HC Deb 16 June 1927 vol 207 cc1153-4
39. Mr. TINKER

asked the Minister of Transport the number of fatalities in 1926 caused through pillion riding?

The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)

I regret that the information asked for by the hon. Member is not available.

Mr. TINKER

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman if there is any intention of bringing in legislation which will deal with pillion riding?

Colonel ASHLEY

Yes. If the hon. Member will peruse the draft of the Road Traffic Bill he will see that it is proposed to give certain powers to the Minister of Transport to deal with certain aspects of this question.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is the greatest objection to any interference with the liberty of the subject in regard to pillion riding?

Colonel ASHLEY

Does the hon. and gallant Member refer to the liberty of a number of young ladies to ride pillion?

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is not the Minister of Transport aware that this is the only way many people of modest means have of getting out into the country?

Colonel ASHLEY

If the hon. and gallant Member will read the Bill, he will see that it is only proposed to interfere in two aspects; one, to give power to the Minister to limit the number of pillion riders, and the other, the ways in which they are to be seated.

Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Is it not the fact that a great number of fatalities are due to this method of riding; and is it not the case that many rural district councils are urging the Minister of Transport to take powers to stop it?

Mr. SPEAKER

We cannot discuss a Bill which has not yet been brought in.