HC Deb 13 February 1941 vol 368 cc1518-9
43. Mr. Palmer

asked the Home Secretary in how many cases cyclists have been prosecuted in the last three months for failing to carry lighted rear lamps during lighting-up hours?

Mr. Peake

I regret that the particulars asked for by my hon. Friend are not available.

Mr. Palmer

Is my hon. Friend aware that this is a widespread practice, and that it does impose an unfair handicap upon both Service and civilian drivers, and has he in mind measures to try to check the practice?

Mr. Peake

I can tell my hon. Friend that in the Metropolitan Police district more than 3,000 persons were prosecuted during these three months for various lighting offences in regard to bicycles, although I could not specify how many cases concerned the absence of a rear lamp without a good deal of investigation.

Mr. Palmer

Will my hon. Friend pursue this matter? Can he take some further steps?

Mr. Peake

I think I can assure my hon. Friend that the police are taking steps to enforce the law in this respect.