HC Deb 09 May 1938 vol 335 cc1236-7
47. Mr. Day

asked the Home Secretary the number of prosecutions for exceeding the speed limit on the Mall and on Constitution Hill for the 12 months ended to the last convenient date; the number of police officers engaged during this period in working these particular speed traps; the amount of time occupied on this duty; the estimated cost of their salaries for loss of time and expenses whilst so occupied; and the total amount of fines and costs imposed upon motorists who were charged with these breaches of the law?

Mr. Lloyd

During the 12 months ended on 30th April there were 630 such prosecutions; six sergeants and 12 constables were employed for a total number of 3,672 hours at an estimated salary cost of £560. The total amount of fines and costs imposed on the persons convicted was £626 14s. 6d.

Mr. Day

Will the hon. Gentleman consider that it may be better to have these officers employed in uniform so as to prevent breaches of the law rather than hiding behind hedges to catch people after they have inadvertently exceeded the speed limit?