§ 54. Captain Stricklandasked the Secretary for Mines what monthly ration of petrol is allowed pertaximeter cab in the London Metropolitan area; how many taximeter cabs are so rationed; and how this allowance compares with the ration made for private-hire taximeter cabs in the same area?
§ Mr. LloydThe monthly allowance of petrol for taxi-cabs in the Metropolitan Police area is 90 gallons. According to the latest information available 5,369 taxi-cabs are so rationed. Private-hire cars 1004 are allowed petrol on a scale according to horse-power, which varies from 33 gallons a month for the 1–9 horse-power group to 60 gallons a month for those of 20 horse-power and over. This scale applies to all private hire cars whether or not they are fitted with taximeters.
§ Captain StricklandIn view of the very heavy additional demand on the services of private taximeter cabs, would my hon. Friend consider making a more generous grant of petrol to this type of vehicle, which is used very largely in the public service and among civil servants, and most particularly by the hospitals themselves?
§ Sir Reginald BlairIs the Minister satisfied with the allocation of 90 gallons for taxicabs plying in the West End of London as compared with 40 gallons in the suburbs of London?
§ Dr. LittleWould the Minister take into consideration the allocation of more petrol for Northern Ireland? I am hearing from folk who are calling for additional petrol, and I know that they cannot get it.