£11,000 IN FINES

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23355, 25 May 1939, Page 12

£II,OOO IN FINES

MOTORISTS' ANNUAL BILL i THE CAMPAIGN FOR SAFETY LEGISLATION BEING PREPARED [BY TELEGRAPH —PRESS ASSOCIATION*] WELLINGTON, Wednesday A further warning to intoxicated drivers was given by the Minister of Transport, the Hon. It. Semple, in a speech at Eastbourne to-day. Mr. Semple said that in six years 1200 persons had been killed on the roads. His aim was to make the roads safe, and further legislation was being shaped for those who were not taking notice. The Minister said he felt sure of the people's support in insisting that intoxicated drivers /should get off the roads. Last year there were 130 convictions against intoxicated drivers and £1650 was imposed in fines. In many casts magistrates were now doing the right thing and sending intoxicated motorists to gaol. Last year £II,OOO was collected in fines from offending motorists, money which would in many cases probably have been better spent in the homes of those concerned. His department did not want this':money. Its aim was to educate and lessen the accident and death rate on the roads and to make travel safer.

Inspectors were tolerant last year, said Mr. Semple. For instance, 24,000 warnings had been given, in each of which there could have been a prosecution. Bus services carried 23,000,000 passengers last year without accident. If bus drivers could do this, operating for the most part in congested areas, others could do tho same.