HC Deb 11 March 1919 vol 113 cc1089-91
80. Sir PARK GOFF

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the shortage of taxi-cabs, he can see his way to grant licences to any open or other motor vehicles which reasonably comply with the public requirements for conveyances?

Mr. SHORTT

The present shortage of vehicles is due to scarcity of material and labour. As material becomes available, more and more cabs will be overhauled and put in service. The question of licensing of other types, if approximately suitable, is under consideration.

Sir P. GOFF

May I respectfully ask my right hon. Friend if he is aware that several French firms are ready and willing to supply vehicles at once, as soon as the Government prohibition is lifted, and the duty taken off?

Mr. SHORTT

The question is whether they are fit for the traffic of the London streets.

Mr. G. TERRELL

Can my right hon. and learned Friend see his way to grant them at any rate a temporary licence, to get over the period of the present shortage?

Mr. SHORTT

That point will be considered.

Mr. TERRELL

Will it be done?

Mr. SHORTT

That I cannot say.

81. Sir P. GOFF

asked the Home Secretary whether a driver of a taxi-cab has any right before accepting a hiring to question the fare as to the destination or duration of the hiring; whether the driver can discriminate in favour of the easier or better paid offer; and, if so, what remedy, if any, the public have?

Mr. SHORTT

As I explained to the hon. Member in the answer which I gave to his question on the 4th March, the driver of a taxi-cab cannot be compelled to drive for more than six miles, and he is, therefore, entitled to inquire the destination before accepting a hiring. If the hiring is to be within the six-mile limit the, driver must accept the first person who offers to hire him, and should he refuse he can be proceeded against by summons. The only exception to this rule is where a cab is standing on railway premises, and in that case I am advised that the driver cannot be compelled to accept a hiring.

Sir P. GOFF

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman if shortage of petrol at the present time is any excuse?

Mr. SHORTT

Of course, if the taxi-cab will not go the distance it would seem useless to take it!

Sir C. KINLOCH COOKE

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of changing the law with regard to taxi-cabs in railway stations?