§ 17. Mr. Ridsdaleasked the Minister of Transport what was the result of the 6 appeal under section 143 of the Road Traffic Act, 1960, concerning the increase in bus fares in North-East Essex of between 30 and 40 per cent.; and what action he has taken.
§ Mr. CarmichaelWe have received the report of the independent inspector who held an inquiry into this case and my right hon. Friend will announce a decision shortly.
§ Mr. RidsdaleAs this severe rise took place in May, surely it would have been quicker to send it to the Prices and Incomes Board? Is not the scale of the increase outside the Government's prices and incomes policy? Will he expedite this matter as quickly as possible?
§ Mr. CarmichaelThe standstill provisions of the Prices and Incomes Act do not apply to decisions made by traffic commissioners. My right hon. Friend will publish the report as soon as he studies, it.