§ MR. CHANNINGTo ask the President of the Local Government Board in what way and by what officials the safety of the construction and equipment of motor omnibuses for street traffic or for use on country roads is now tested; whether certificates of fitness for the traffic specified are now issued after any such testing and inspection; and whether he will consider the advisibility of forthwith strengthening the law and the administrative requirements and powers so as to better provide for the security of the public.
(Answered by Mr. John Burns.) In the Metropolitan Police district stage carriages of all kinds, including motor omnibuses, are inspected and licensed by the police. Motor omnibuses, like other omnibuses plying for hire, in urban districts outside the Metropolitan Police district are licensed by the urban district council, and in connection with such licensing are liable to be inspected. No formal certificates of fitness for the traffic specified are issued. The suggestion in 1316 the last part of the Question will not be lost sight of.