HC Deb 21 May 1931 vol 252 cc2173-4
16. Mr. HACKING

asked the Home Secretary whether he contemplates any reorganisation of the motor patrol service in the Metropolitan area?

Mr. CLYNES

No reorganisation is in contemplation.

Mr. HACKING

In view of the large number of accidents which take place in the patrol service, is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that these drivers have sufficient experience before they are taken on?

Mr. CLYNES

Yes, there is a very severe test before they are recruited or employed. As I have informed the House in previous answers, most of these accidents are very trivial, and we have not yet had enough experience to consider any question of reorganisation.

Mr. MARLEY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that certain of these members passed the test after only two weeks in a driving school?

Mr. CLYNES

I am not aware of that fact. I shall be glad to have any information on that point.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is not that more than most of the motorists on the road have?

Sir W. BRASS

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider giving instructions to these police, especially at corners, to watch for dangerous passing?

Mr. CLYNES

That has not previously been considered. It is, I think, a point worth looking into.