§ 18. Major Sir Jocelyn Lucasasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has 921 been called to a conviction and fine of £1 and £20, respectively, on the driver and owner of a taxicab for refusing a fare from Morecambe to Newmarket and back, a distance of 480 miles; whether he will remit this fine and give the name, address and occupation of the person engaging the taxicab and of the person or authority initiating the prosecution; and what steps he is taking to deal with them?
§ Mr. H. MorrisonFrom the inquiries I have made, it seems that my hon. and gallant Friend has been misinformed as to the nature of these proceedings. The prosecution was in respect of the acceptance, not the refusal, of a fare, the driver being fined £1 for waste of petrol, the hirer being fined £10 for aiding and abetting, and the owners being fined £20 for permitting the offence. I understand that the defendants have appealed to quarter sessions and that the appeal has not yet been determined. The case is accordingly still before the courts and I cannot intervene in any way.
§ Sir J. LucasIs my right hon. Friend aware that I am very glad to receive that answer after the reports which have appeared in the Press?
§ Mr. DenvilleCan the penalty be increased at quarter sessions?
§ Mr. MorrisonYes, Sir, on appeal.