HC Deb 17 July 1935 vol 304 c1033
22. Mr. GLOSSOP

asked the Minister of Transport how many licences for haulage contractors have been granted, and how many applications have been refused, under the Road and Rail Traffic Act, 1933?

The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Mr. Hore-Belisha)

Preliminary figures indicate that up to 31st March last there had been issued over 47,000 "A" and "B" licences for the full currency periods authorising the use of over 110,000 vehicles. In addition, more than 50,000 short-term licences were issued covering vehicles the number of which has not been reported to me. I have no information regarding the number of vehicles in respect of which licences have been refused.

Mr. GLOSSOP

In view of the effect on employment of transport and lorry drivers, will not the right hon. Gentleman obtain the figure of the number of applications for licences which have been refused?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

I would willingly obtain any figures that can be obtained without a disproportionate amount of labour, but I fail to see that the figure without the necessary qualifications and explanations would convey any useful impression.

Mr. GLOSSOP

rose—

Mr. SPEAKER

The question is becoming a debate.