Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

Driving Licences and Dangerous Drivers

14 June 2022 · 1 other contributor · 2,676 words

Opened by Siobhain McDonagh Lab Mitcham and Morden

Responding minister: Trudy Harrison

Crime & Law EnforcementTransport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Siobhain McDonagh raised concerns about driving licences and dangerous drivers in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • Concerns raised about 1,390 families losing loved ones to road deaths in the last year.
  • Called for urgent legal amendments to take accused dangerous drivers off the roads immediately during investigations.
  • Minister acknowledged road safety concerns but stressed the need to avoid hasty decisions without considering potential negative impacts.

Key requests to Government

I urge the Minister to consider amending the law so that anyone accused of death by dangerous driving is immediately taken off our roads while an investigation is ongoing. This would ensure no further tragedy occurs due to a lack of immediate action.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Siobhain McDonagh Lab Mitcham and Morden

I am concerned about the estimated 1,390 families who lost a loved one to a road death in the last year. A constituent of mine was tragically killed in December, leaving her family devastated. The current law allows dangerous drivers to continue driving until they are found guilty, which can take years. My case raises concerns about the need for urgent action to protect others and provide peace of mind for grieving families. I highlighted the story of Carol King whose partner Richard Jordan was tragically killed in 2019 by a driver with previous convictions who received a sentence of six years and eight months, only to be back on the road after three years.

Other contributors (1)
  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Commends the hon. Lady for securing the debate and supports her objectives, suggesting that changes in law would be beneficial across all regional Administrations.

Government Response

Trudy Harrison

Acknowledged the seriousness of the debate and the tragedy of Lillie Clack's death, extending condolences to her family. Stated that while the Government takes road safety seriously, they must not rush into decisions without considering potential negative impacts. Mentioned that police can already impose bail conditions to suspend driving licences in certain cases. Noted recent measures including increased penalties for causing death by dangerous or careless driving under influence and a new offence for serious injury caused by careless driving. Announced a call for evidence on road traffic offences, promising to keep the hon. Member informed of progress.

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