§ 8. Mr. W. BAKERasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that proprietors of omnibuses plying in the metropolitan district, unlike tramway companies, have no power to enforce a prohibition on smoking inside their vehicles; and whether, having regard to the delay which is caused owing to disputes between passengers and conductors with regard to this question, he will consider the desirability of placing the proprietors of such vehicles in a similar position to that of the tramway authorities?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSYes, Sir, but it would require legislation to deal with this matter. It has been noted for consideration, in the event of an apportunity for legislation occurring.
§ Mr. W. BAKERHaving regard to the admitted difficulty, would it not be a simple matter to introduce a very short Measure dealing with this subject?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThe hon. Member knows that the opportunities for small legislation are not very great, and this would need legislation. It might be brought in by a private Member with general assent.