§ 32. Sir WILLIAM DAVISONasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that at Woking recently a motorist was fined 10s. for driving in the wrong direction in a one-way street, the plea in defence being inability to read, but his driving licence was not suspended; and, in view of this and similar cases, will be introduce legislation requiring some test before licences are granted, especially with a view to preventing the grant of licences to persons who cannot read?
Mr. STANLEYI do not think that the number of motorists who cannot, owing to their inability to read, understand the effect of traffic signs is sufficient to justify special legislation.
§ Sir W. DAVISONDoes not my hon. Friend consider that this case shows the futility of the present system of licensing, under which persons who are deaf, blind, or illiterate can obtain licences to drive a locomotive on the King's highway; and in order to protect the public will he consider the urgency of providing some test before a person is allowed to drive a locomotive on the highway?
Mr. STANLEYIf I thought this case had any bearing at all, it would be rather on the merits of our educational system than on the merits of a test for drivers.
§ Mr. HOLFORD KNIGHTIn view of the danger to the subject which arises, it may be in only a few cases, will my hon. Friend consider the propriety of providing safeguards against this danger?
§ Mr. PIKEDoes this not prove that magistrates do not necessarily believe the defence that is submitted on behalf of the defendant?
§ Sir W. DAVISONIs not the point that some test of some kind is required?