HC Deb 06 February 1945 vol 407 c1874
8. Major C. S. Taylor

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he will authorise an increase in the petrol allowances for private-hire motor-cars and taxi-cabs in Eastbourne, in view of the large numbers of evacuees returned or returning.

Major Lloyd George

I have received no representations that the number of hire cars and taxi-cabs at Eastbourne is in-adequate for the reason suggested by my hon. and gallant Friend. I am, however, making inquiries and will communicate with him again as soon as possible.

Major Taylor

is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that I made representations upon the point many months ago? If he wants further representations, I shall be pleased to send a list of the taxi drivers that there are.

Major Lloyd George

That is not quite the point. When an emergency such as the hon. and gallant Gentleman refers to has arisen we have given the hire-car proprietors extra petrol. The taxi driver's allowance is already much higher and the proper way to proceed, if the local authority or the local police feel that Eastbourne is not properly served, is for them to apply for more taxi-cabs.

Mr. E. P. Smith

Will the right hon. and gallant Gentleman bear Ashford in mind?

Commander Locker-Lampson

Also London?