§ 17. Mr. Higgsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware of the large number of bicycles which are being stolen; and in order to make it more difficult for thieves to dispose of stolen machines, will he consider the possibility of some simple form of registration?
§ The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Herbert Morrison)I understand that in the last 18 months there has been a substantial decrease in the number of bicycles stolen, though the number still remains large. I am afraid that the introduction of any system of registration would involve complications which would make it impracticable in war-time. It would be of material assistance if cycle owners would keep a note of the maker's number, so that they could inform the police in case of theft.
§ Mr. HiggsCan the Minister see his way to issue an Order to make his suggestion legal in order to enforce it? Is he also aware that the time spent by the police and the courts on these cases is excessive, that registration is general in Other countries and that there is registration of motor cars?
§ Mr. ShinwellIn view of recent events, can the right hon. Gentleman give the House a rendering of the Battle of the Boyne?
§ Sir H. WilliamsWill the right hon. Gentleman follow the example of his colleague, the Minister of Agriculture, and make trespass on footpaths illegal?