§ 70. Mr. Culverwellasked the Secretary of State for War whether War Department motor vehicles are subject to the ordinary speed-limit regulations; and will he take steps to secure their closer observance?
§ The Financial Secretary to the War War Office (Mr. Richard Law)War Department vehicles are subject to the ordinary speed-limit regulations, except that, in cases of operational necessity and under the orders of a responsible officer, they are granted exemption from the limits imposed on certain categories of vehicles. No War Department vehicle is exempt from the speed-limit of 30 miles per hour, and 20 miles per hour in hours of "black-out," in built-up areas. Instructions to this effect have been issued, and Commands are frequently reminded of their responsibilities in this matter.
§ Mr. CulverwellIs my hon. Friend aware that many of these war vehicles are being driven by inexperienced drivers in the most dangerous and reckless manner? Will he take steps to enforce the regulations and take disciplinary action against those who break them?
§ Sir William DavisonWill an urgent circular be sent to commanding officers, because convoys with no urgent business are travelling at these reckless speeds dur- 1712 ing the black-out to the great danger of the public? It is very undesirable that this should be allowed, and some serious notice should be taken of the matter.
§ Mr. BellengerIs the Minister aware that in operations orders there is a limit laid down to the number of vehicles per mile and the mileage per hour? Will he see that these operations orders are enforced, because at the present time drivers, even under officers, are ignoring them?