§ 60. Mr. MARJORIBANKSasked the Minister of Transport how many communications he has received from owners of motor coaches and chars-a-bancs plying between the provinces and London with regard to his proposed traffic regulations; and whether he will inquire as to the number of persons directly employed by such owners, whether companies, firms or individuals?
§ Mr. HERBERT MORRISONRepresentations regarding the proposed regulations have been received from 95 operators of motor coaches and chars-a-bancs plying between the provinces and London. While I shall duly take into account all relevant considerations, I do not at present see any necessity for instituting special inquiries.
§ Mr. MARJORIBANKSWill the Minister consider the very large number of men who will be thrown out of work if these regulations are put into force?
§ Mr. MORRISONI am not satisfied that that is so, but I must consider the question of traffic congestion in the centre of London.
§ Mr. MARJORIBANKSWill the Minister receive a deputation and evidence on the matter?
§ Mr. MORRISONIf those who are arranging this agitation wish to see me at the right time, I am willing to see them, certainly.
§ 67. Mr. COLMANasked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that many coach companies with London termini and tourist agencies arranging London itineraries for their clients are being inconvenienced by no decision having been reached with regard to the suggested restriction of motor coaches in London streets; and if he can now state what action he proposes to take in respect to them, either by way of enforcement, withdrawal or modification of the proposed regulations?
§ Mr. HERBERT MORRISONI have received representations from motor coach companies and tourist agencies to the effect indicated by the hon. Member. I am not in a position, however, to make any statement on the subject, as the parties referred to by the hon. Member have taken proceedings in the High Court and the case is at present sub judice.
§ Mr. MILLSDoes my right hon. Friend agree at all with the phraseology of this question, as to whether there are in fact any termini, and whether the streets in London are not used by these people in unscrupulous competition with the railways?