HC Deb 17 October 1968 vol 770 c570
30. Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department on what date he received the communication from the hon. Member for West Ham, North, concerning police using their private vehicles without a current road fund licence; why no reply had been sent by 14th October; and when a reply can be expected.

Mr. Callaghan

The letter was received on 7th October and a reply despatched on 15th October.

Mr. Lewis

While warmly thanking my right hon. Friend for the very evasive letter which I have received, may I ask him whether he does not consider it regrettable that ordinary motorists should have action taken against them immediately if they, sometimes unconsciously break the law, while the police are continuously breaking the law and yet for weeks, and in some cases months, no action is taken by the police against their compatriots? Does he not think that the police should take action when policemen break the law?

Mr. Callaghan

I thought that there was a thorn amidst those roses. Obviously it exists. If my hon. Friend has had any evidence he has never been backward in bringing it to my notice in the past, and when he does so I always follow it up and try to ensure that there is equality of treatment between all citizens.

Mr. Lewis

On a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I beg to give notice that I shall seek leave to raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible opportunity.