DAMAGES CLAIMS.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVIII, Issue 236, 5 October 1937, Page 14

DAMAGES CLAIMS.

ROAD ACCIDENTS.

MOTORISTS' LIABILITY. MINISTER'S OPINION. (By Telegraph Association.) WELLINGTON, Monday. The proposal of the AttorneyGeneral, the Hon. H. G. R. Mason, to introduce a bill removing the necessity for proving negligence in claims for damages by persons injured in road accidents was discussed by the executiv? of the Automobile Association (Wellington) in committee to-night, after hearing a report on an interview which motorists' representatives had with Mr. Mason. It was stated that both the motor unions had protested against th.* principle.

The secretary, Mr. W. A. Sutherland, reported that representatives of the two motor unions had interviewed the Attorney-General regarding the proposal. The Minister wanted to obtain the opinions of the unions. They had told him that they disagreed with the principle of holding that motorists were responsible in all accidents whether they were to blame or not. The Minister replied that he would consider the sui>ject further and allow them to have tho bill after it had been drafted. Mr. Sutherland said he believed the bill wae now in draft form and he expected it would be received this week.

"With regard to the premium, which we think will be considerably increased, the Minister eeemed to think there would be a very small increase, of a few pence yearly, to motorists." continued Mr. Sutherland. "I think there is room for disagreement there. The Minister did point out that the premium would have to be increased in any case, because it ie not on a payable basis."

Probably another conference of the motor unions will be held "this week.