HC Deb 30 July 1958 vol 592 c1352
28. Mr. Palmer

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he will appoint a special committee of inquiry into the present system of motor car insurance, with a view to halting increasing charges, reducing premiums to the careful driver, and bringing about greater safety on the roads.

Mr. Watkinson

No, Sir. The manner in which motor insurance is conducted, the premiums charged and any allowances given are matters within the discretion of the insurance market, and I see no reason for the appointment of a committee of inquiry into these matters.

Mr. Palmer

Would not the Minister agree that with the vast growth in the extent of motor traffic this is now a matter of some public concern? Is he aware that there is a widespread feeling among the public that the majority of careful drivers have to pay far too much to subsidise the minority of people who should not be on the roads at all?

Mr. Watkinson

Possibly that is so, but I do not think it makes a case for a public inquiry.