HC Deb 20 October 1949 vol 468 cc749-50
33. Mr. Keeling

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why new London taxi-cabs have no roof luggage rails.

Mr. Ede

Roof guard rails are required on taxis only where it is intended to carry luggage on the roof. As luggage is now more usually accommodated on the platform, the fitting of roof rails is largely discontinued on new cabs.

Mr. Keeling

But is not the Home Secretary aware that there is happily an increasing number of families who wish to put their perambulators on top of taxis? Would it not, therefore, be desirable that the taxis in future should have these luggage rails?

Mr. Ede

This matter was under consideration when the conditions of fitness were last reviewed, and there was no unanimity in the trade, and it was then agreed that the requirement to fix roof rails should remain optional. I have no doubt that if there is a change in custom there will be a change in the attitude of the trade, and of the committee which deals with it.