68. Mr. HUTCHISONasked the Minister of Transport whether the reasons for the decisions of the traffic commissioners in refusing licences are always issued for publication and general information; and, if not, whether he will arrange for this course to be followed?
§ Mr. PYBUSIn cases where the decision is announced at a public sitting many of the traffic commissioners state their reasons for arriving at that decision, but no arrangements have been made requiring the publication of reasons in every case. Wherever an appeal is lodged a statement of the grounds of their decision is obtained from the com- 29 missioners and is communicated to the parties concerned before the inquiry into the appeal is held.
69 and 70. Mr. HUTCHISONasked the Minister of Transport (1) if he will state in how many cases fares of existing motor-coach services have been increased by order of the different traffic commissioners;
(2) if he will state the names of all hitherto existing motor-coach services which have now been refused a licence by the various traffic commissioners, giving in each case the reason for this decision?
§ Mr. PYBUSThe information asked for is not in my possession. The preparation of such special statements would involve considerable labour on the part of the traffic commissioners and would seriously impede them in carrying out their duties. If, however, my hon. Friend desires information as to the facts in any particular service, I will do what I can to supply it.