HC Deb 08 May 1956 vol 552 cc998-9
23. Mr. Hannan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will state separately the number of people killed and injured in each of the years 1953, 1954, and 1955, in incidents where a driver was drunk in charge or under the influence of alcohol.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

The numbers of persons killed or injured in Scotland in accidents where a driver was subsequently convicted of being drunk in charge or under the influence of drink or a drug were as follows:—In 1953, eight persons killed and 87 injured; in 1954, four killed and 109 injured; in 1955, seven killed and 116 injured.

Mr. Hannan

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the growing concern amongst the public and police authorities in Scotland at the mounting number of innocent victims of this road carnage? Has his attention been drawn to the criticism of the inadequate and farcical penalties which are being imposed, and can he not do something about it?

Mr. Stewart

Yes, Sir, we are indeed, and it is without any doubt a very distressing problem. We are considering what could be done.

Mr. Stokes

May I ask the Minister, as a Sassenach, and regardless of whether this happens in Scotland or England, whether he does not consider that a man who is found drunk in charge of a car should have his licence taken away from him, if not for life, at least until he forswears the use of alcohol? What does the hon. Gentleman think would happen to an engine driver found drunk in charge of an engine?

Mr. Stewart

I take careful note of the right hon. Gentleman's Sassenach intervention.