§ 76. Mr. Thorneasked the Minister of Transport how many summonses were issued against Messrs. Bentley and Sons (Colne), Limited, wholesale fruiterers, of 6, Parliament Street, Colne, Lancashire; will he state the excessive hours worked by their motor lorry drivers; and whether he is aware that the time sheets were improperly kept?
§ The Minister of Transport (Mr. Hore-Belisha)I am informed that 35 summonses were taken out against this firm alleging that their employés had been driving for continuous periods exceeding 5½ hours. These summonses were dismissed on payment of £5 costs. Nine summonses were also taken out in respect of the incorrect keeping of records. The company was found guilty on each of these charges and ordered to pay a fine of L2 on the first summons and costs on the other eight.
§ Mr. ThorneDoes not the Minister think that more stringent measures should be taken, especially in cases where firms are responsible for their drivers not keeping a proper log?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaA more stringent method than prosecution cannot be taken, and it is for the courts to decide on the penalties.
§ Mr. PalingDoes the right hon. Gentleman think that this kind of administration of the law is likely to have any effect?