§ MR. CHIOZZA MONEY (Paddington, N.)To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been directed to the fact that a number of motor omnibuses have been licensed to ply for fares in the metropolis which are so badly constructed that they constantly break down, causing obstruction in the public thoroughfares, which are permitted to carry more passengers than they can comfortably hold, which in many cases emit clouds of noxious vapour, which are driven recklessly to the public danger, largely owing to the terms of employment of the drivers, and which are often started while passengers are descending the stairs, owing to the terms of employment of the conductors; and whether he will immediately take steps to withdraw the licences which have been issued in respect of these vehicles.
(Answered by Mr. Secretary Gladstone.) The question of the conditions under which motor omnibuses are to be licensed is one which requires, and is constantly receiving, very careful consideration. The vehicles are still largely in an experimental stage, and though strict conditions with a view to public safety are already enforced, it is perhaps early as yet to require the companies to remedy 692 all the defects to which they are subject. There have been numerous prosecutions for reckless driving, and many faulty vehicles have been prohibited from plying for hire. The emission of vapours and other points are receiving the attention of the Commissioner of Police and his advisers.