HC Deb 09 June 1932 vol 266 cc2089-90
16. Mr. LYONS

asked the Home Secretary the latest regulations of the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police with reference to the issue of police reports upon road accidents?

Sir H. SAMUEL

The Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis, with my approval, has issued a fresh Order to his force dealing with the revised procedure to be followed in answering applications from interested parties for information in connection with road accident cases. This has been issued following consideration of the whole question in consultation with representative Chief Officers of Police with the object of securing greater uniformity of procedure. I am sending my hon. Friend, and will place in the Library, copies of the memorandum now issued by the Commissioner's Office to applicants for particulars of a road accident.

Mr. LYONS

Is it a fact that these new regulations impose a premium of £ 1 — 10s. for a report, and 10s. for an interview—to be paid before the proposed litigant can approach the police officer; and, in suitable cases, will the right hon. Gentlemen recommend remission of these charges to poor people.

Sir H. SAMUEL

No, Sir; I do not think the hon. Member is correct. He will see the particulars in this memo- randum. In all cases it is the practice and will continue to be the practice to waive the fee, or reduce the fee if any hardship is likely to be incurred by a poor applicant.

Mr. LYONS

Is that observation included in the representations of the Commissioner?

Sir H. SAMUEL

The Commissioner is well aware of the fact, and it is the present practice. It is not inserted in the memorandum because that would be an invitation to every one to apply for the remission of the fees.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Therefore, this information is kept secret, and the unfortunate person has to find the police officer and make these payments before he can get justice.

Colonel GRETTON

Can the right hon. Gentlemen take similar steps to secure that reports will be furnished by the police in country districts also as there is great difficulty, at present, in cases of accidents, in securing police reports?

Sir H. SAMUEL

Yes, Sir; this action has been taken in consultation with the chief officers of the police throughout the country.

Colonel GRETTON

Are they acting?

Sir H. SAMUEL

I believe so.