§ 26. Lieut.-Commander Joynson-Hicksasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he is aware that the decision of the Southeastern Regional Transport Commissioner, on 2nd August, to permit the operation of a motor-omnibus service by the Southdown Motor Services, Limited, in the neighbourhood of Midhurst involves a weekly motor-omnibus mileage of 566 miles in excess of the service in respect of which a permit was applied for by Mr. Potter; and what were the grounds for this decision which again denies to the public the enonomic motor-omnibus services of small proprietors.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerAt the request of Mr. Potter, the decision made by the Regional Transport Commissioner has already been reviewed. After careful consideration of the facts and circumstances, including the evidence given, and the representations made at the public inquiry, held by the 786 Commissioner on 2nd August, my Noble Friend has informed Mr. Potter that he sees no sufficient ground for altering the Commissioner's decision. I am writing to my hon. and gallant Friend explaining the reasons which prompted my Noble. Friend to take this view.
§ Lieut-Commander Joynson-HicksAs this is the third occasion when small proprietors have been refused permits, can my hon. Friend assure the House that there is no prejudice against small proprietors in this matter?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerYes, Sir, certainly. Our preoccupation is to ensure the best service for the public in the national interest. I personally considered this case and I thought it was really overwhelming.