HC Deb 18 March 1919 vol 113 cc1908-9
73. Sir PARK GOFF

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that, in addition to the vehicles out of service in consequence of lack of labour and material, there are also at present over 2,000 taxi-cabs lying idle which could be available at once; and, if so, what steps he proposes to take to remedy this serious inconvenience to the public?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Shortt)

It is a fact that there is a large number of cabs lying idle awaiting overhaul, but nothing is known of there being any immediately available for licensing. If so, the owners have only to present them for the purpose, and, if found fit, they will be licensed at once.

Sir P. GOFF

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a large number of cabs owned by British companies, built specially to Scotland Yard requirements, are at present waiting in Paris, and the Board of Trade has repeatedly refused to import them?

Mr. SHORTT

No, Sir, I have not heard of that.

Sir P. GOFF

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that a large number of old taxi-cab drivers who have served since 1914 and have already been demobilised are unable to earn their living owing to the refusal to licence more taxi-cabs at present; and, if so, what remedy he suggests for those men who are at present out of work?

Mr. SHORTT

It is believed that there is at the moment a considerable number of licensed drivers who are unable to find cabs to drive, but this is not due, as the question seems to suggest, to any desire on the part of the Commissioner to limit the number of cabs licensed. On the contrary, he is preferred to licence any number that may be presented, provided that they are fit for public service.

Sir P. GOFF

Is it within the right hon. Gentleman's recollection that one of the Election pledges, since then repeated in this House, was to find employment for discharged sailors and soldiers; and is not this a suitable opportunity for doing that?

Mr. SHORTT

If the men are fit for public service they can take out licences and drive.

Lieutenant-Colonel C. LOWTHER

Will the right hon. Gentleman order that some scrutiny should be made into the character of the men at present driving with a view to reinstating the old drivers who are now demobilised, and who have served their country?

Mr. SHORTT

If any member of the public has any complaint to make against any driver we shall be only too glad to consider the complaints.