COLONEL BEAUMONTasked the President of the Board of Trade, Whether he is empowered to grant licences for the experimental use of steam or other mechanical power on Tramways, in accordance with paragraph 8 of the Report of the Select Committee on Tramways (Use of Mechanical Power) Bills; and, if not, whether the Government will bring in a Bill authorizing the Board of Trade to place all Tramway Companies on the same footing, whether they have or have not applied during the present Session of Parliament for Confirmation of Provisional Orders?
§ VISCOUNT SANDONSir, I have no power to grant licences for the experimental use of steam or other mechanical 1607 power on tramways; and after what has passed on the subject in the House today, I think the hon. and gallant Gentleman will agree with me that, supposing we considered general legislation desirable, it would be almost impossible for me to pass a Bill at this period of the Session.