HC Deb 19 July 1926 vol 198 c898
69. Captain CROOKSHANK

asked the Minister of Transport whether he has now received a Report from the London Traffic Advisory Committee regarding prowling taximeter cabs; and, if so, what action he proposes to take to deal with this nuisance?

The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)

The answer to my hon. and gallant Friend's question is in the negative. I understand that the London Traffic Advisory Committee have been so pressed with other matters that they have not yet been able to complete their consideration of this question, which is one that presents considerable difficulty. I am hopeful, however, that they will be in a position to report to me on the subject before very long.

Captain CROOKSHANK

Will the right hon. Gentleman direct their attention to the methods employed in the United States, where there is a very largely increased use of the telephone and taximeters are not allowed to prowl?

Colonel ASHLEY

They are considering all those points.

Lieut. - Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALL

Does the right hon. Gentleman recognise that it would be better to look after affairs according to the English manner, and will he do what he can in regard to slow-going traffic and horse-drawn traffic?

Mr. H. WILLIAMS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the prowling taxicab is a great convenience to a great many people?

Sir H. BRITTAIN

Is there any reason why the prowling taxicab should not prowl?