§ 38. Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why, in view of the fact that parking restrictions are not applicable in the London area on Bank Holidays, the police and traffic wardens gave notice of intention of summons to a number of motorists who parked their cars in restricted areas on the statutory declared Bank Holidays of Friday, 15th March and Saturday, 16th March; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TaverneIt would not be proper for me to comment; it is for the chief officer of police concerned to decide whether to bring proceedings and for the courts to settle any question of law that arises.
§ Mr. LewisWith respect to my hon. and learned Friend, that is dodging the issue. Is it not a fact that these were declared statutory Bank Holidays and that people thought, quite legitimately, that on Bank Holidays they were permitted to park in these spots, as they did, without being charged and fined? Will he issue an instruction for these notices to be withdrawn, these days having been declared Bank Holidays?
§ Mr. TaverneI assure my hon. Friend that I am not dodging the issue. This is 1716 not a matter for me. First, it is not for us to act in place of the courts, and, secondly, it is not for us to give instructions to the police about when to prosecute.
§ Mr. LewisOn a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the Minister's reply, I beg to give notice that I shall seek to raise the matter on the Adjournment.