§ 74. Mr. Mellishasked the Minister of Transport what legislation he is proposing to ensure that drivers convicted of road offences, which raise doubts as to the ability or skill of a driver, will be compelled to take another driving test before a driving licence is reissued.
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§ Mr. HayThe courts can already disqualify from driving, until the passing of a driving test, any person convicted of dangerous or careless driving or of driving under the influence of drink or drugs. The decision to impose this penalty is entirely a matter for the courts in each particular case.
§ 78. Mr. Mellishasked the Minister of Transport whether he will introduce legislation substantially increasing the minimum penalties which may be imposed on drivers of vehicles charged and found guilty of dangerous driving or being drunk in charge of a vehicle, in view of the public disquiet existing on this matter.
§ Mr. MarplesCourts are already required, in the absence of special reasons, to disqualify for at least 12 months drivers convicted of driving under the influence of drink or drugs, and for at least 9 months in the case of a second or subsequent conviction for dangerous driving. In either case disqualification may be imposed for longer periods and with both a fine and imprisonment in addition, if the court considers that the circumstances justify it. I do not think that to increase these already severe penalties would of itself contribute to road safety.