HC Deb 27 July 1933 vol 280 cc2757-8
23. Mr. TEMPLE MORRIS

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that persons in poor financial circumstances who receive injuries in road accidents experience difficulty in paying the fee charged by some police forces for an abstract of the police report containing copies of particulars of their accident and the names and identities of interested parties and witnesses thereto; and if he will issue a circular to all police forces recommending a standard nominal charge for persons in such circumstances?

Sir J. GILMOUR

Chief officers of police have a discretion to waive or reduce the amount of this fee in all suitable cases, particularly where the full charge would involve hardship. I have no reason to suppose that the existing practice does not work satisfactorily, and in the circumstances there does not appear to be any occasion for the issue of a circular to police.

Mr. CAPORN

Will my right hon. Friend make inquiries to see if in fact the right to reduce the charge is acted upon?

Sir J. GILMOUR

As I have said, I have no reason to suppose that it is not, but, if the hon. Member will give me any information, I will consider it.

Mr. CAPORN

Has the right hon. Gentleman made inquiries?

Sir J. GILMOUR

Oh, yes.