HC Deb 25 February 1931 vol 248 cc2118-9
46. Mr. CHARLES WILLIAMS

asked the Minister of Transport if he has any figures to show what was the increase in the number of third-party risk insurance policies taken out in January, 1931, as compared with January, 1930?

Mr. HERBERT MORRISON

I have no information with regard to the number of third-party risk insurance policies which have been taken out.

Mr. FREEMAN

Has there been any increase in tariff rates as a result of the operation of the Act?

Mr. MORRISON

Not to my knowledge.

63. Captain CAZALET

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that it is necessary under the recent Road Traffic Regulation Bill for a farmer desiring to move a tractor from one field to another, which necessitates a short journey along a road, to take out an insurance policy against third-party risk for this tractor; and whether he will introduce legislation to mitigate this burden imposed on farmers?

Mr. MORRISON

I cannot see my way to introduce amending legislation with a view to exempting from the provisions of Part II of the Road Traffic Act, 1930, farmers who use motor vehicles upon the public road. I understand, however, that agricultural vehicles used to a very limited extent upon the public roads may be insured against third-party risks in respect of such use at specially low rates.

Captain CAZALET

Has the Minister of Transport received any complaints in regard to this matter from farmers?

Mr. MORRISON

I do not think the complaints have been extensive, and I am not sure that there have been any at all, but the point has been brought to my notice on more than one occasion.

Mr. TURTON

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether any accidents occurred last year involving third-party risks owing to the dangerous driving of these farm vehicles.

Mr. MORRISON

I cannot say.