HC Deb 13 May 1964 vol 695 cc420-1
11. Mr. Dempsey

asked the Minister of Transport if he will take steps to end the present situation whereby motorists in one town are prohibited from using the motor taxation office in an adjoining town; and if he will make a statement.

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

The authorities responsible under the Vehicles (Excise) Act, 1962, for vehicle registration and licensing are not empowered to act outside the area of their normal jurisdiction. In exercising their functions under the Vehicles (Excise) Act, 1962, local authorities do far more than merely issue licences. They are also responsible for vehicle registration, record keeping and Excise enforcement. This work would be immensely complicated if their sphere of responsibility were not confined to their own area.

I appreciate that the present system can appear to produce some anomalies, but I do not think it causes inconvenience generally because licences can be obtained by post and renewed at post offices.

Mr. Dempsey

Is the Minister aware that Airdrie town is contiguous to Coat-bridge and that drivers must pass through Coatbridge and make a 12-mile roundabout journey to Hamilton either to obtain a licence or to renew one? Is not this an example of red tape? Does the Minister realise that motor agents are held up very much by a last-minute rush to license cars because this detour has to be made when people could have the service provided on their doorstep? Is it not time to end this sort of anomaly and to cut out this red tape?

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

I am aware of the situation to which the hon. Member refers, but it is not peculiar to his constituency. It can arise whenever there is a tax office in a county borough or large burgh. As I have said, however, the renewal of licences, which constitutes most of the transactions, can be done at post offices and there is a post office in Airdrie and also a postal service by which it can be done. The present system is of long standing and it may not be suitable for ever. It is a matter which is under continuous review and we will certainly bear in mind what the hon. Member has said.