HC Deb 15 February 1917 vol 90 c797
64. Mr. BUTCHER

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the scarcity of petrol, he will prohibit the present wasteful use of petrol whereby taxi-cab drivers, in order to record the fare to be paid by the hirer, keep the engine continuously running while the cab is stationary?

Sir G. CAVE

The fare-recording meter is governed when the car is in motion by the revolution of the wheels, and when it is at a standstill by time. The meter is in no way affected by the running of the engine. As a driver has to pay at a fixed rate for the petrol which he uses he has the strongest inducement to be economical in its use.

Mr. BUTCHER

Seeing that the excuse suggested in my question does not exist, is there any excuse whatever for this reckless waste of petrol?

Sir G. CAVE

I am afraid I know of none.