52. Mrs. Slaterasked the Minister of Transport if he will state the number of times the penalty of withdrawal of the licence has been enforced in cases of excessive hours being worked by haulage firms, in 1959 and 1960.
§ Mr. MarplesSix times in the twelve months ending 30th September, 1959, ten times in the next twelve months.
53. Mrs. Slaterasked the Minister of Transport what was the outcome of the meeting with the trade unions representing lorry drivers in relation to the long hours expected to be worked by some haulage firms.
§ Mr. MarplesI have promised to consider representations received from the trade unions that more enforcement staff should be employed to deal with the working of excessive hours of drivers of commercial vehicles.
§ 56. Mr. Woodburnasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware of the danger to road users of men falling asleep while driving; and what steps he takes to enforce the law in cases of drivers exceeding the permitted daily number of hours' driving time.
§ Mr. MarplesYes. Enforcement of the law is a matter for the police, and for the licensing authorities, who employ some 150 special staff for the purpose. They warn or prosecute offenders. The courts can fine or imprison, and the licensing authorities can suspend or revoke the carrier's licence.