HC Deb 23 May 1853 vol 127 cc547-8

The Order of the Day for the consideration of the Hackney Carriages (Metropolis) Bill, as amended, was then read.

LORD ADOLPHUS VANE

said, he saw no economy in the Bill, and could not understand what there was in it which should make the public so anxious for this wonderful Cab Bill. He should move, upon the next stage, that the half miles be charged at a proportionate mileage rate, and that the rate for waiting be assessed as at present.

MR. W. J. FOX

suggested that some right of entrance to railway stations should be provided for cabs, and that these stations should be put upon the same footing as other cab ranks.

MR. JAMES MACGREGOR

would be very glad to consent to this, if the Government would repay the railway companies the money they had expended upon their stations.

SIR JOHN SHELLEY

understood that the fee at present paid by cabs on entering the stations was principally for water, and that whatever there was over and above went to form an annuity fund for the cab-drivers themselves.

Bill considered: Clause added; Amendments made: Bill to be read 3a on Monday next.