HC Deb 27 January 1966 vol 723 cc389-90
36. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why he refused to adopt the British breath-testing machine in favour of one of foreign origin.

Mr. George Thomas

No decision has yet been taken as to the type of device which would be used for the screening tests envisaged in the White Paper on Road Safety.

Mr. Hector Hughes

Is the Minister's reply a confession that British scientists are unable to produce such a test in this island? Does he not have some regard to the employment situation in making these important instruments? Will he take steps to see that they are produced in this country and used in this country?

Mr. Thomas

The answer to the first part of my hon. and learned Friend's question is "No, Sir". The answer to the second part of his question is that, of course, we are determined to get the best type of machine possible.