HC Deb 14 December 1977 vol 941 cc487-8
21. Mr. MacKay

asked the Secretary of State for Transport when he will be presenting to Parliament the report on cherished numbers; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Horam

My right hon. Friend will make a statement on the review of the working of the new system after the recess.

Mr. MacKay

Is the Minister aware that many people are concerned that cherished numbers may not survive? Does he agree that this harmless but eccentric practice might even make a reasonable profit for the authorities if it were continued?

Mr. Horam

I am happy that a small profit is made out of it.

Mr. Dykes

If cherished numbers survive but the numbers are reduced by overt or covert Government pressure or pressure from Swansea, will the hon. Gentleman have a word with all the nationalised industry chairmen who love to drive around in large cars bearing registration marks such as NCB 1 and TWA 1?

Mr. Horam

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will take that up with the chairmen directly.

Mr. Bidwell

Is my hon. Friend aware that there are hon. Members who have cars bearing the registration mark MP followed by a number as a cherished number plate? Will he have regard to the fact that very soon it may be necessary to issue XMP-prefaced number plates?

Mr. Horam

I shall take account of that rather eccentric suggestion.