HC Deb 10 June 1931 vol 253 cc1001-2
49. Miss PICTON-TURBERVILL

asked the Minister of Transport whether he can make any statement as to the Government's intentions in the matter of the use without charge of lorries for such purposes as workpeople's outings and school treats?

50. Mr. CAMPBELL

asked the Minister of Transport what decision has now been reached with regard to permitting the use of motor lorries without charge for the purpose of carrying parties of children, boy scouts, girl guides, and cricket and football teams?

Mr. PARKINSON

The Government have carefully considered the representations which have been received as to the hardships which may be caused by the fact that Sub-section (3) of Section 61 of the Road Traffic Act, 1930, does not permit of the use without charge of lorries for the conveyance of cricket or football teams, or of passengers on such occasions as workpeople's outings, school treats and camps. I am afraid it is not practicable to provide special exemption for occasions such as these, and the Government have reached the conclusion that on the whole the balance of advantage lies on the side of repealing the Subsection altogether, although this course will legalise the use of lorries for the conveyance of passengers on less desirable occasions and for less worthy purposes than those indicated in the question, so long as no payment is made for the use of the vehicle. My right hon. Friend hopes to be able to arrange for the introduction in another place at an early date of a one Clause Bill providing for the repeal of the Sub-section on the understanding that the Bill is to be regarded as non-controversial.

Miss PICTON-TURBERVILL

While thanking the Minister for his reply, can he assure us that, if the Bill is passed, these lorries can be used for outings and school treats not only, as was said in the "Times" yesterday, from village to village, but from the cities to the countryside?

Mr. PARKINSON

That is the purpose of the Bill being introduced.

Mr. CAMPBELL

While thoroughly appreciating the fact that the Government have taken this decision, may I ask them to expedite the Bill as much as they possibly can, as the health of tens of thousands of young people depends upon its passage?

Mr. PARKINSON

My hon. Friend may rest content that no time will be lost.

Major COLFOX

Will the Bill include provision for altering the law in other respects to which the Minister's attention has been called?

Mr. PARKINSON

No.