HC Deb 20 May 1943 vol 389 c1215
21. Mr. G. Strauss

asked the Home Secretary whether he is now in a position to make any further statement on the subject of the immobilisation of unattended motor vehicles and of vessels in inland waters?

Mr. H. Morrison

Yes, Sir. The Government have given careful consideration to this matter and have decided that some relaxation of the existing orders would be justified at the present time. Amending Orders have accordingly been made by which the requirement of the immobilisation of unattended motor vehicles and of vessels in inland waters will cease to have effect, except in the counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, Sussex, Hampshire, Dorset, Devon and Cornwall and those parts of Essex and Kent which are outside the Metropolitan Police district. I must, however, make it clear that this requirement may again be imposed over the whole country at any time if the Government think that course necessary.

Mr. Bowles

Does my right hon. Friend mean that cars need no longer be locked when unattended?

Mr. Morrison

In those areas, left on the highway—that is so.

Mr. Woodburn

In the interests of public safety will my right hon. Friend consider a relaxation of lighting restrictions when the winter comes?