§ 31. Mr. Liptonasked the Minister of Transport if he has reconsidered the ban on U-turns by London taxicabs; and if he will now lift this ban.
§ Mr. MarplesYes, Sir. I have considered a report from the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis on the operation of the experimental ban on U-turns in Central London and have received the advice of the London Travel Committee. I have also discussed the ban with representatives of London taxi interests and have received an assurance that if the ban is lifted they will do all in their power to ensure that taxi-drivers make U-turns with the minimum of inconvenience to other traffic. On that understanding that this will be done, I have agreed to the withdrawal of the experimental regulations, with effect from today.
§ Mr. LiptonFor the very first time, may I thank the right hon. Gentleman for a very satisfactory reply? I was afraid that he was going to continue to adopt a non-U attitude.
§ Mr. MarplesI should like to tell the hon. Gentleman that it is not the first time that he has congratulated me, nor will it be the last.