HC Deb 01 July 1914 vol 64 cc368-9
79. Mr. KELLAWAY

asked the President of the Local Government Board if his attention has been called to the rise in the rates in London and the country caused by the destruction of the roads by motor omnibus services and other heavy motor vehicles; and whether he is considering any steps by which the owners of such vehicles shall be required to make some contribution towards the cost of repairing exceptional damage to the roads?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

It is proposed to ask Parliament to appoint a Joint Select Committee to consider the general question of contributions to road expenses by the owners of motor and trolley omnibus services. The question of requiring the owners of heavy motor vehicles to pay a larger contribution than now to the cost of roads is receiving the attention of the Treasury.

Mr. KELLAWAY

Will the right hon. Gentleman say when the Joint Select Committee will be set up?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

I hope it may be possible for it to commence its investigations soon.

Mr. BOOTH

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that these vehicles are used by persons of moderate means, and will he be very careful not to allow anything to result in an increase in fares?

Mr. F. HALL (Dulwich)

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the tramways of London are contributing £250,000 per annum towards the relief of the local rates, and whether it is fair that the omnibus companies should be let off without paying an extra penny cost?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

That is a matter for debate.

Mr. HALL

Did not a Committee already sit in connection with that matter; and may I ask when is it likely their Report will be brought to the notice of the House?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

I do not think there has been a Committee this year.

HON. MEMBERS

Last year.