MR. HAY MORGAN (Cornwall, Truro)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that the taximeters affixed to motor cabs plying for hire in the Metropolis register different fares for identical distances; and whether any arrangements are made for a periodical test of the accuracy of such taximeters.
§ MR. GLADSTONEDifferent fares will often be registered for identical distances, because the fare chargeable for taximeter cabs is based on a combination of time and distance. Arrangements have been made for the periodical testing of the accuracy of all taximeters.
§ MR. CATHCART WASON (Orkney and Shetland)Have the police instructions to take action where the taximeters are registering wrong prices?
§ MR. GLADSTONEWhen complaints are received they will be inquired into by the police.
§ MR. CATHCART WASONShould complaints as to overcharges be made to the Commissioner or to the Home Office?
§ MR. GLADSTONETo the Commissioner. If any are sent to the Home Office I will see that they are forwarded to the police.