HC Deb 16 September 1931 vol 256 cc831-2
22. Brigadier - General CLIFTON BROWN

asked the Minister of Transport whether the petition of 4,000 of the inhabitants of Wokingham and district against the action of the traffic commissioners in refusing to license the Led-bury Transport Company's vehicles Reading-London has been considered by him; and whether, in view of the recommendations of the Wokingham Town Council, he will now allow the service to be recommenced?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of TRANSPORT (Mr. Gillett)

The Ledbury Transport Company, Limited, exercised their right of appeal against the refusal of the Traffic Commissioners for the Southern area to grant a road service licence for a service of stage carriages between Reading and London, via Wokingham. A petition and also certain representations of the Wokingham Town Council were received and my right hon. Friend, the Minister of Transport in the late Government, caused an inquiry to be held in order to enable him to arrive at a decision on the appeal. After careful consideration, he decided not to make any order on the Traffic Commissioners and his decision has been notified to the parties concerned.

Brigadier-General BROWN

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the late Minister refused to allow a representative of the town council on the appeal, and that their view has never been properly presented? Will the hon. Gentleman, therefore, not reconsider the matter?

Mr. GILLETT

I am afraid that the question is now finished with, and that it is impossible to re-open it.

Brigadier-General BROWN

May I come and represent the case of the inhabitants of this district who are suffering very much?

Mr. GILLETT

I understand that it is now quite impossible to do anything in the matter.

Brigadier-General BROWN

In view of the very unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter at the earliest opportunity.