§ 26. Mr. E. Fletcherasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will place a limit on the total number of licences granted annually for driving taxicabs in the London area.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeI would refer to the reply given to the hon. Member for 656 Southampton, Test (Dr. King) on 24th April.
§ Mr. FletcherIs the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that there is very considerable concern about the unrestricted number of licences that are being granted?
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeYes, Sir. I have had the pleasure of meeting the trade union concerned and I am considering the matter very carefully. I must admit that I find it a most difficult question, but I am giving my best consideration to it.
§ Mr. RankinCan the right hon. and learned Gentleman tell us when he expects that all existing taxi-cabs will have meters to register the new fares?
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeThat is another question, but if the hon. Member will put it on the Order Paper I will look into it.
§ 27. Mr. E. Fletcherasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many new licences for driving a taxicab in the London area have been granted since 1st January, 1952.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeOne hundred and thirty-nine, Sir.