58. Mr. CATHCART WASONasked the Home Secretary what rate is charged by taxi-cabs in Liverpool, Brighton, Birmingham, Glasgow, and Edinburgh; and if he will consider if the present rate of 2d. per quarter of a mile in London affords reasonable profit to the companies and fair wages to the drivers?
§ Mr. McKENNAI have ascertained that the following rates are charged in the towns named in the question:—
- Liverpool and Birmingham—6d. for the first half-mile; 2d. for each succeeding one-sixth of a mile.
- Brighton—1s. for one mile; 6d. for each succeeding half-mile.
- Edinburgh—1s. for the first mile; 2d. for each succeeding quarter of a mile.
- Glasgow—1s. for the first mile; 3d. for each succeeding quarter of a mile.
- The whole question of fares was carefully considered in 1911 by the Depart-
1989 mental Committee on Taxi-cab Fares, which reported against alteration of the tariff.
Mr. CATHCART WASONIn view of the great public inconvenience arising from the strike, which has now lasted a long time, will the right hon. Gentleman direct the attention of the Board of Trade to the matter?
§ Mr. McKENNAI will certainly consult with my right hon. Friend.
§ Mr. C. DUNCANAre there not grounds for revision of the charges in connection with the alteration of the conditions which exist and the increasing price of petrol?
§ Mr. McKENNAIt is a difficult question to argue now. Of course, there are points which have to be taken into account on the other side.
§ Mr. DUNCANWill that be taken into consideration?
§ Mr. MCKENNACertainly.
§ Mr. FLAVINIs not the principal grievance the exorbitant price attempted to be charged by the petrol combine?
§ Mr. McKENNAI believe that is so, but there are other considerations.