§ MR. LOUGH (Islington, W.)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what action he has taken with reference to the grievances of the London cabmen, which were brought before him by a deputation last autumn and by various questions put in this House and privately since then; and whether, taking into consideration the public inconvenience caused by strikes, he is willing to appoint a Committee of this House to consider the relations of the industry to the Home Office, and to recommend such changes as may be necessary as to transferring the control to the London County Council, the limitation of drivers' licences, the amount and disposal of the cab plate revenue, the jurisdiction of the police courts, the relations with the Railway Companies, tariff, payments to owners, stands and shelters in the streets, regulations, and all other matters touching the conduct of the Metropolitan cab service?
§ MR. ASQUITHThe matter has engaged my attention, and I have had drawn, and hope to be able to introduce, a Bill which will remedy some of the evils connected with what is called "bilking" brought under my notice at the deputation referred to. All the Railway Companies have been communicated with on the subject of the complaints relating to the practice of the different companies made by the deputation. I am not, as at present advised, prepared to recommend the appointment of a Committee to consider the somewhat multifarious subjects referred to by my hon. Friend.
§ MR. WEBSTER (St. Pancras, E.)May I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman thinks it advisable to limit the number of licences granted for drivers and cabs, as it is practically apparent to everybody that there are too many cabs at the present time?
§ MR. ASQUITHI think that is a suggestion well worthy of consideration. My own opinion is that there are too many cabs.