§ 23. Dr. Glynasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, in view of the unsatisfactory arrangements for travellers arriving at London Airport seeking taxi services, he will take steps to ensure that the existing six-mile limit is altered to anywhere in the greater London area.
§ Mr. SharplesThe Committee on the London Taxicab Trade has recommended that taxi drivers should be compelled to accept all hirings from London Airport to certain specified postal districts in central London. This and other approaches to the problem are being considered in the consultations following upon the Committee's report.
§ Dr. GlynI thank my hon. Friend for that helpful answer. Is he aware that the first impression received by visitors when they arrive at London Airport is a most unfortunate one and that many taxi drivers would welcome some action since the situation has given taxi drivers a very bad name? Is he also aware that a change in the law may require special byelaws by the airport authority to enable any steps to be effective because these taxi ranks are on private property?
§ Mr. SharplesYes, Sir, I am aware of the problem to which my hon. Friend refers, and I hope that we shall be able to proceed with the recommendation in the Stamp Report.