HC Deb 21 June 1933 vol 279 cc753-4
24. Mr. HALES

asked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that insurance companies have imposed an age limit of 75 years beyond which they refuse to issue any policies to cover risks appertaining to motor car driving; and whether, in the event of applicants beyond that age being desirous of obtaining a licence, he will take steps to establish a medical board which will decide as to suitability to possess a licence?

Mr. STANLEY

I am not aware that insurance companies have adopted as a general rule the imposition of an age limit beyond which they decline to accept proposals for insurance against third party risks, and I see no sufficient reason for adopting the suggestion made in the second part of the question.

Mr. HALES

As this has been done, may I ask whether it is necessary to allow the insurance companies to enforce an age limit under which a young man like myself may be debarred from driving when he gets to be one day older than 74 years and 364 days?

Mr. STANLEY

It may be that the insurance companies will not be willing to insure the hon. Member apart from the question of age.

Mr. HALES

In that case, may I not have the option of proving my capabilities to a competent tribunal?

Mr. CAPORN

Arising out of the original answer, may I ask if it is the policy of the Government to leave private insurance companies to decide whether people are or are not to drive motor cars on the road?

Mr. STANLEY

The policy is to allow them to choose what persons they shall insure.