HC Deb 03 March 1927 vol 203 cc529-30
11. Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURY

asked the Home, Secretary when it is proposed to introduce the cheaper taximeter cabs on the London streets; and whether he has any information with regard to the effect of the cheapening of the taximeter cab fares in New York?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I understand that one or two firms have been proceeding with the designing and con- struction of a two-seater taxi-cab, but, they have progressed so slowly in the direction of making available to the public a cheaper form of taxi-cab that I now propose to inform them that unless they are in a position to place upon the market, within the next three months, two-seater taxi-cabs in reasonable numbers, I shall hold myself free to reopen the whole question of taxi-cab fares.

Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURY

With regard to the last part of the question, could my right hon. Friend give any information about New York? Is he aware that the number of taxi-cab users there has more than doubled since the charge was reduced, and that the drivers realise that it is much more profitable to have numerous trips than to have only part occupation?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

That is true, but I understand that a great deal of the profit in New York arises from the taxi-cabs standing still, owing to the congestion of traffic.

15. Mr. BOOTHBY

asked the Home Secretary whether he proposes to take any practical steps to improve the condition of taximeter cabs in London and to reduce their fares?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

Every taxicab is required at the time of the renewal of its annual licence to be thoroughly overhauled and renovated. If on inspection and trial the engines of any taxi-cab are found not to conform to the Commissioner's standard of fitness its licence is not renewed until the defects are satisfactorily rectified. With regard to the second part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave on the 10th February to the hon. and gallant Member for Chelmsford.

Mr. BOOTHBY

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that, despite the fact that he has been talking about this question for nearly two years, the taxi-cabs of London remain the most uncomfortable and expensive in the world and will he take steps to bring about an improvement?

Mr. SPEAKER

Hon. Members seem inclined to give their own answers to questions.