§ 22. Viscount CURZONasked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that passengers in motor chars-a-bane are allowed to sit alongside or, in some cases, on both sides of the driver; whether this fact is likely to distract the driver's attention under certain conditions; and whether he will take power to extend the present regulations affecting motor omnibuses in London in this respect to all public service motor vehicles throughout the country?
§ Sir E. GEDDESThe suggestion contained in the last part of the Noble Lord's question would require fresh legislation. The Regulation relating to drivers of mechanically propelled public service vehicles has not yet been considered by the Departmental Committee. As I have stated on more than one occasion, I cannot anticipate their report or the legislation which may follow it.
§ Viscount CURZONDoes the right hon. Gentleman not think it is rather dangerous for these crowded vehicles to have passengers sitting or either side of the driver?
§ Sir E. GEDDESThat is a matter of opinion. We can only proceed with the investigation, and the question is being investigated.