HC Deb 24 March 1970 vol 798 c1196
20. Sir G Nabarro

asked the Minister of Transport how many cherished motor-car registration numbers at £5 per car were retained by motorists on transfer to new cars in 1969; and what was the total revenue from this source.

Mr. Bob Brown

I regret that this information is not readily available since no separate records are maintained of these transactions, although it could be said that some people try to "NAB" them all.

Sir G. Nabarro

While deprecating the hon. Gentleman's horrible punnery, may I ask him if he will recall that during the passage of the Vehicles and Driving Licences Bill, which became an Act in the Session of 1968–69, it was promised that the system would be retained intact. While computerisation is now in sight for renewal of licences and for new licences, could he repeat the assurance that computerisation will not affect this cherished system of motor-car numbers?

Mr. Brown

I can give that assurance. I am surprised that the hon. Gentleman should become so heated. After all, he has NAB 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.

An Hon. Member

And 6.

Mr. Wallace

Would my hon. Friend state whether he is considering referring flagrant cases to the Monopolies Commission?