HC Deb 28 January 1981 vol 997 cc921-2
20. Mr. Iain Mills

asked the Secretary of the State for Transport whether he proposes to review the fixed penalty treatment for certain traffic offences.

Mr. Fowler

This is one of the areas which the working group on traffic law, set up by my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary and myself, have been studying. The group has now completed its report and we are studying its recommendations. I have, of course, already taken action in the Transport Bill to implement its recommendations that the totting up procedure should be replaced by the points system.

Mr. Mills

Is my right hon. Friend aware that many millions of motorists will thank him for his efforts in the Transport Bill? However, is my right hon. Friend also aware that they would go further and say that a simple system of fixed penalties would allow simpler, more efficient, more immediate and less bureaucratic solutions to minor traffic offences. Will my right hon. Friend pursue that with determination?

Mr. Fowler

The report of the working party shows that that kind of system is possible. I refer to a ticket system rather than on the spot fines. The Government will consider it in the coming months.

Mr. Tom Benyon

When my right hon. Friend considers the fixed penalty system, will he also consider penalties for jay walking? Is he aware that my constituents in Botley are being forced to jay walk at great risk to life and limb? Will my right hon. Friend reassure them that the subway at Botley on the A34 will be given urgent consideration by his Department before death occurs?

Mr. Fowler

I am not sure whether the working party that we set up considered that problem. I shall get the Department to look into it.