§ 20. Mr. Colemanasked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many complaints he has received concerning delays in executing requests for driving licences by the new motor vehicles licensing office at Morriston.
§ Mr. PeytonA distressingly large number.
§ Mr. ColemanIt is obvious from that answer that the right hon. Gentleman is aware that there have been complaints and delays of as much as four months from this centre. Is he aware that these delays are causing considerable inconvenience to magistrates' courts, the police and defendants in cases at those courts? What does he intend to do to ensure that the delays are diminished as much as possible?
§ Mr. PeytonI am very conscious of the inconvenience caused to many members of the public and I deeply regret it. By way of explanation, I merely say that the start of the operation at Swansea, which was always bound to be difficult, anyway, was unfortunately accompanied by an industrial dispute, and the work was seriously interrupted. I am very appreciate of the efforts that have since been made by the staff there to catch up and put things right.