HC Deb 04 July 1944 vol 401 cc1001-2W
Sir W. Smithers

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if he has studied the documentary evidence sent him regarding the danger caused by the excessive speed of Service drivers of all nations; and what further steps does he propose to take.

Mr. Peake

The Home Secretary is obliged to my hon. Friend for sending him a newspaper cutting relating to an accident to a Service vehicle on 15th June, but he does not think that there is anything which he can usefully add to the reply given to my hon. Friend's Question on 2nd March last. As he then indicated, the matter is one which has been receiving and will continue to receive the special attention both of the Service Authorities and of the police.

Mr. R. Duckworth

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the number of Service men killed in this country in motor accidents under conditions where no need existed for risk or hurry, he will issue a warning to Army drivers to observe greater care.

Sir J. Grigg

Drivers of War Department vehicles in this country are at all times subject to the civil law and Road Traffic Acts. Special military speed limits are also imposed in places outside "built-up" areas where speeds are not controlled by civil law. Warnings and instructions to exercise care and avoid risks have been issued from time to time. These are constantly brought to the notice of drivers, and special instructions have been issued to ensure that disciplinary action is taken against men guilty of breaches of these regulations.