HC Deb 22 March 1926 vol 193 cc875-7
68. Mr. R. MORRISON

asked the Home Secretary whether he has received any communication from the London Traffic Advisory Committee with reference to the effect upon London traffic congestion of the proposed licensing of two-seater taximeter-cabs; and if he will indicate the nature of his reply?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

The London and Home Counties Traffic Advisory Committee, which was consulted by the Ministry of Transport, recommended that before two-seaters were licensed, powers should be sought in order to enable me to limit the number of taxicabs and taxicab drivers. It appeared to me, however, that any proposal to limit the number of these vehicles, which are in quite a different position from omnibuses plying on fixed routes, is beset with very great difficulties and open to many objections, and I did not, therefore, find it possible to accept this advice.

Mr. MORRISON

May I take it then that the right hon. Gentleman refuses to take action in this matter without any considerable amount of consideration for the London Traffic Advisory Committee, who are charged with the responsibility of endeavouring to avoid further congestion?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

The Home Secretary is charged with the responsibility of issuing licences for taxicabs, and neither the Home Secretary, the London Traffic Advisory Committee, nor anybody else has any power to limit the number of those licences, and I do not propose to ask Parliament to give me that power, because I do not believe it is desirable in the interests either of the taxicab drivers, the men who may desire to drive, or of the general public.

Mr. MORRISON

What steps is the right hon. Gentleman taking in order to see that before licensing additional two-seater taxicabs, there are ranks for them to occupy?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

The police are always seeing where they can get new ranks, and new ranks are frequently being instituted, and they will be instituted as far as possible to meet the requirements of the taxicabs in London.

Mr. NAYLOR

Have any representations been made to the right hon. Gentleman by the London Traffic Advisory Committee?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

As the hon. Gentleman would have heard if he had done me the honour of listening to my reply, I have had the recommendations of the London Traffic Advisory Committee, and with the deepest respect I regret I have been unable to accept their advice.