§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) whether he will make a statement concerning the spot check made on roads in the Barnes area which resulted in three police officers being reported for using 368W unlicensed road vehicles and why, in view of the fact these officers were reported as far back as November, 1968, action has only now been taken; and whether he will make a statement;
(2) on what date the police made a spot check on vehicles near to the police departments at Barnes to ascertain the number of unlicensed vehicles in use; how frequently this is done on a general basis in London; and whether such action will be taken more frequently in future.
§ Mr. Elystan MorganThe check took place between 17th and 20th November last. It was followed by police inquiries and reference to the Director of Public Prosecutions. Reports about possible excise offences were sent to the Greater London Council, and the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis contemplates proceedings for other offences.
It is for the Commissioner to decide what police resources shall be devoted to such matters. It would require a disproportionate expenditure of time and effort to collect the statistics requested.