HC Deb 27 October 1952 vol 505 cc1550-1
20. Mr. J. Hynd

asked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been drawn to the practice of carrying children in the open luggage boots of private cars; and whether he will take steps to make such practices illegal in the interests of road safety.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport (Mr. Gurney Braithwaite)

One instance of children travelling in the way mentioned has been brought to my notice. I do not think this is a common practice and I consider that the good sense of parents and the existing law are an adequate safeguard.

Mr. Hynd

While this may not be a common practice, if such an instance has been brought to the Minister's notice and he finds that it can legally be done, will he take action to see that this practice is made illegal?

Mr. Braithwaite

The practice is extremely foolish and highly dangerous. The hon. Gentleman may be aware that Regulation 72 (3) of the Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations, 1951, provides that No motor vehicle or trailer shall be used for any purpose for which it is so unsuitable as to cause or be likely to cause danger to any person on the vehicle or trailer or on a road. Cases of this kind are, I believe, covered by the Regulation.

Mr. Hynd

Do I take it that action could be taken in such a case?

Mr. Braithwaite

Yes.