§ 9. Sir F. MEYERasked the Home Secretary whether he can now state when the first two-seater taxi-cab will be licensed to ply for hire in London?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSNo two-seater has yet been presented for licensing, but as I told the hon. Member on the 3rd June, three firms are taking steps to produce this class of vehicle, and as soon as the vehicles are ready they will be licensed.
§ Commander BELLAIRSWhat is the cause of the delay in meeting public requirements?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThe cause is due to the time taken to build them. We are doing what we can.
§ Colonel DAYHave the plans been submitted to anyone and approved?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSOh, yes; I answered that many weeks ago.
14. Captain CROOKSHANKasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the congestion caused in the streets of London by prowling taximeter cabs; and whether he intends issuing any Regulations to permit the police to deal with this nuisance?
§ The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)I am fully aware of the traffic congestion alleged to be caused in certain streets in London by cruising taxicabs. I have asked the London Traffic Advisory Committee to investigate the matter and I am awaiting their Report.
§ Colonel DAYWill the right hon. Gentleman see that these taxicabs are kept to the near side of the road?
§ Mr. R. MORRISONDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think that the addition of a large number of two-seater cabs will cause greater traffic congestion?
Lieut.-Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALLIn order to assist London traffic, will the right hon. Gentleman see that the regulations are carried out with regard to slow-going traffic keeping to the near side?