HC Deb 28 July 1937 vol 326 c3120W
Mr. Mathers

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will state the number of fatal and non-fatal accidents, respectively, on the roads which were attributed to alcoholic liquor during the last 12 months for which the causes have been analysed; what proportion of the whole these represent; and whether, in view of the authoritative opinion that alcohol is a potent cause of accidents, though the motorist would not be considered under ordinary tests to be under the influence, he will take steps to improve the analysis of causes to cover all cases where drink has been consumed?

Mr. Burgin

Of the 100,000 road accidents involving personal injury during the six months, April to September, 1936, the reporting authorities attributed to drivers, cyclists, or pedestrians under the influence of drink or drugs (as sole or main cause) 14 fatal and 538 non-fatal accidents and (as a contributory cause) 10 fatal and 61 non-fatal accidents. It would not be practicable to obtain the data upon which to make the further analysis suggested.