The Plight of the Motorist

At a time when the Conservative Party is being accused of apathy, it is pleasing to note that a punch-packed book by P. G. M. Gregory, called “The Plight of the Motorist”, has emanated from the Conservative Political Centre, 32, Smith Square, London, S.W.1, from whom copies can be obtained for 2s. 6d. each. This book emphasises the sorry plight of today’s drivers under such headings as “Tragedy of the Road Fund”, “Highway Costs and Needs”, “Road versus Rail”, “Britain’s Missing Motorways”, “The Prices of Congestion”, “Return of the Turnpikes?”, “The Parking Meter Farce”, etc. The raids on the so-called Road Fund have been made by Governments of both colours but the grim outlook for future motoring in this country under a Socialist regime is clearly stated, even to tolls for entering the bigger cities and the condemnation of the motorist before he or she is guilty.

It is interesting that the author expresses views on safety belts and breathalysers which tally almost exactly with those we have expressed in Motor Sport, and that he advocates police co-operation with drivers, citing the “Courtesy Cop” innovation in Lancashire in the 1930s. [The Bucks Constabulary operated something similar after the war.—Ed.] The book, which is illustrated with Craig cartoons, commences: “Become one of Britain’s 14-million drivers and it would appear that you are immediately regarded as a second-class citizen—a person to be abused, restricted, regulated, taxed almost out of existence, and shackled by a thousand different laws, bye-laws and regulations”.

Those who object to this will wish to see how the Conservatives propose to improve matters, by reading this little publication.