§ 19. Rear-Admiral SUETERasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will ascertain and state the principles followed by the Metropolitan cab-licensing authorities under which worn-out taximeter-cabs are still allowed to receive a renewal of licence to ply for hire within the Metropolitan area; and whether the front-entrance type of Austin taximeter-cab has been tried out and with what results?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir John Gilmour)Taximeter-cabs come up for licence annually and licences are not granted in respect of worn-out cabs. I am informed by the Commissioner that no cab is passed as fit for public use unless it comes up to the conditions of fitness laid down by him. In the case of older cabs, this frequently involves extensive reconditioning of vehicles, the fitting of new mechanical parts and occasionally new engines, in order to bring them up to required standard of fitness. As regards the second part of the question, the front entrance type of Austin taximeter-cab has been approved for trial purposes and 20 such cabs are now licensed. The Commissioner informs rae that so far the results have been satisfactory.
§ Mr. HOLFORD KNIGHTIs my right hon. Friend aware that owing to bad times many of these men have been unable to repair or replace their cabs, and will he assure the House that sympathetic consideration on merits will be given to these men?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI am sure it will be.