HC Deb 04 May 1931 vol 252 cc29-30
80. Colonel HOWARD-BURY

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that a motorist, who through inadvertence has forgotten to take out a driving licence, causes his motor insurance policy to lapse automatically; and whether, seeing that the object of compulsory insurance is to protect third parties, he will take steps to remedy this?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of TRANSPORT (Mr. Parkinson)

I am aware that most insurance policies covering the use on roads of motor vehicles contain a clause to the effect that the holder is only insured whilst licensed to drive a motor vehicle, and that, in consequence, when a driver has allowed his licence to expire and has forgotten to obtain a new one, he is not for the time being insured. My right hon. Friend is at present in communication with representatives of motor insurance interests with a view to ascertaining whether, and if so in what manner, this difficulty can be overcome.

Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that a motorist to-day is liable to penalties up to£70 for becoming an uninsured person and is likely to have his licence taken away for 12 months; and, in view of the great hardships which are thus inflicted, for a mere oversight, would not he take this matter into consideration with a view to bringing in legislation?