HC Deb 19 December 1974 vol 883 cc1795-6
6. Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will now make a statement on the Maxwell Stamp Report on hackney carriages.

Dr. Summerskill

Two of the committee's recommendations, on compellable hirings at Heathrow and more stringent control over signs carried on unlicensed vehicles, have already been implemented. We are now considering, following extensive consultations, what further action can be taken.

Mr. Finsberg

I thank the hon. Lady for her reply, which shows a slight advance on similar replies given in the last four years. However, will she assure the House that her Department will give no more contracts for hire to mini-cars, which are the subject of serious allegations in the Maxwell Stamp Report?

Dr. Summerskill

This is one of the important and slightly controversial aspects of the Maxwell Stamp Report which involved discussions with the Commissioner of Police, the trade, the Greater London Council and other Government Departments. I assure the hon. Gentleman that discussions are taking place. I have already had discussions with the Transport Committee of the GLC.

Mr. Lane

Is the hon. Lady satisfied that the GLC, in particular, is dealing with this matter with the necessary urgency?

Dr. Summerskill

The GLC is not very willing to take on policy responsibility unless the police continue with the licensing work. It was, however, pointed out that in the Government's view licensing and policy control were linked and should remain so. We are trying to find a practical solution to the deadlock.