§ Mr. Leachasked the Home Secretary whether he will give an assurance, in view of the growing number of road fatalities, that no action will be taken by him to make it easier for disqualified drivers to have their licences restored to them?
§ Mr. H. MorrisonUnder Defence Regulation 72 (1B) I am empowered to direct the removal of a disqualification if I consider such a course to be expedient in the interests of the efficient prosecution of the war or for maintaining essential supplies and services. I fully recognise the need for great care in the exercise of this discretion, and in accordance with the assurance given by my predecessor, in answer to a Question by the hon. Member for Central Hackney (Mr. Watkins) on 22nd August last, directions under the Regulation are only given in cases where I am satisfied686W that work of national importance is being impeded by the disqualification, and that the person concerned can safely be allowed to drive again.