HC Deb 16 March 1953 vol 512 cc1823-4
42. Mr. Holt

asked the Minister of Transport the reason for the delay in fixing a date for the holding of the hearings of the appeals connected with the licences granted to Northern Roadways for their overnight express services between Glasgow and Birmingham.

Mr. Braithwaite

There has been no undue delay. There were 16 appeals lodged between 24th November and 12th December relating to the grant of the licence and backing. The necessary documents, which included voluminous transcripts of the public sittings, were not available until 16th February. About three weeks notice was given of the inquiry which is to be held on 24th March.

Mr. Holt

Will the Minister make it clear whether the policy of Her Majesty's Government is to encourage or to discourage small firms who try to meet the needs of the public for cheaper but comfortable travelling services?

Mr. Braithwaite

That is an entirely different question.

Mr. Ernest Davies

Will the hon. Gentleman give an undertaking that he will make no change in the administration of the licensing laws until the Thesiger Committee has reported?

Mr. Braithwaite

That, again, has no bearing on the Question on the Order Paper.