HC Deb 06 June 1956 vol 553 cc1057-8
7. Mr. Ernest Davies

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he will introduce legislation amending Section 2 (4) and Part III of the Transport Charges, etc. (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1954, to limit its application to municipally-owned transport undertakings and to exclude privately-owned independent statutory undertakings from its provisions which permit the raising of fares without reference to the licensing authorities.

Mr. Watkinson

No, Sir. So far as I know there is only one privately-owned undertaking which can take advantage of these provisions, and I have no evidence that it is abusing the position.

Mr. Davies

When the Bill was passing through the House, were not hon. Members given to understand that this provision would apply only to certain local authorities? Is it not a fact that the company to which the right hon. Gentleman refers, the Mexborough and Swinton Traction Company, raised its fares on 1st January, 1956, that it did not have to refer to either the licensing authority or the Minister, and that the local councils concerned have no right of objection? What opportunity have the passengers to object to the increase in fares when they are given no protection?

Mr. Watkinson

It is only fair to the company to say that it merely added 1d. to certain workmen's fares. Therefore, I do not think that it is abusing its position. I could not at the moment undertake to legislate for the sake of the one company.

Mr. Davies

As it has been discovered, since the Bill passed through the House, that this company can take advantage of the provision, can the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that there are no other companies which are likely to discover that they come within the terms of the provision?

Mr. Watkinson

As I am advised at the moment, this is the only company affected.