§ 21. Mr. Mawbyasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what study he has made of the effects of the entry of the United Kingdom into the European Economic Community on the motorist; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Eldon GriffithsThe Community's present rules will have little effect on the private motorist. Under arrangements agreed with the Community, the Government will be fully consulted on proposed developments.
§ Mr. MawbyYes, but will my hon. Friend pay attention to the attitude taken about the deprivation of licence? In these circumstances, will he take into account and give further encouragement and support to motor-familiarisation, especially for young people in school, as instituted by the Automobile Association?
§ Mr. GriffithsYes, Sir.
§ Mr. Ronald King MurrayWill the Minister bear in mind that whereas left-hand-drive motorists instinctively turn left 449 to avoid oncoming traffic and right-hand-drive motorists instinctively turn right, the increasing inter-change between Britain and the Continent which is likely to emerge from Britain's joining the Common Market will increase the likelihood of accidents arising from this factor with increasing frequency?
§ Mr. GriffithsYes, Sir. But I remind the hon. and learned Gentleman that millions of people from this country have been travelling to and from the Continent of Europe, whether or not there was British membership of the European Community, and there is no evidence to show that this has led to a substantial increase in accidents.