HC Deb 21 May 1958 vol 588 cc1291-2
34. Miss Burton

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he is now in a position to make a statement concerning the removal of the anomaly whereby the operation of car delivery vehicles is made possible under general trade licences when carriers' A or B licences are not required.

Mr. Watkinson

I am discussing with my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer the best method of removing this anomaly. The problem is, however, complex and I want to be sure that the solution adopted properly caters for the interests of the motor industry and of those engaged in professional road transport.

Miss Burton

Without wishing to commit the members in advance until they know the Minister's final decision, may I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman is aware that the Transport and General Workers' Union secretary in Coventry, and the industry, will be grateful if the right hon. Gentleman can do anything about this? May we take his answer as affirmative and that when he discovers a solution he will apply it?

Mr. Watkinson

That is right, but it is a difficult problem. One difficult matter which arises is that we have to try to secure the possibility of these people carrying on their business if they do so under proper conditions.