MP Stone introduced a bill after fourteen-year-old Harry Parker’s death, aiming to change the law on holding unlicensed drivers accountable.
Stone wants to change the law. His bill would affect unlicensed drivers, making driving without a license automatically careless driving if the bill passes.
Stone spoke about the bill, emphasizing it’s about justice, accountability, and preventing future problems. He stressed it’s not just policy.
Harry Parker’s parents attended the presentation. Stone shared Harry’s story: Harry was fourteen years old, loved playing football, and was considered charming by many. To his parents, he was everything.
Harry’s dad described him as having a big heart and a knack for making people laugh. His presence brightened every room. Sadly, Harry died after being hit by a car near his school, a tragic event that shook the whole community.
The accident occurred in November 2022. Stone was shocked that charges got dropped after two years because prosecutors cited a lack of solid evidence to prove the driver acted carelessly.
Prosecutors dropped all three charges: no license, no insurance, and careless driving. Stone wants to make a change by making unlicensed driving automatically careless.
Stone clarified he doesn’t blame the police or prosecutors, as they followed the current law. However, he believes that’s the problem; the current law is inadequate.
Stone questioned how someone can drive illegally, kill someone, and face no consequences. He wondered why driving without a license does not inherently constitute a careless act.
Stone argued the system has flaws because people need a valid license to drive. Driving without one endangers lives. He wants to close the gaps in our legal system and implement real penalties for those who drive unlicensed.
Stone acknowledged he cannot bring Harry back or give Harry’s parents justice; no law can erase their pain. Stone expressed his desire to stop further family pain.
The “Harry Parker Bill” aims to fix legal weaknesses, ensuring consequences for driving without licenses. It states that those drivers will be judged as truly careless.
Stone urged everyone to honor Harry’s memory by taking real steps. He asked the government to consider the bill and add it to road safety plans.
The bill passed its first stage without opposition and will now move to a second stage involving further review and debate. Stone wants the government to adopt the bill and include it in their road safety plans, believing it’s the simplest path.