Sir F. HALLasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been drawn to a statement that new omnibuses, at the rate 74W of about 25 per week, are to be placed upon the streets of London; whether he is aware that London traffic is congested largely as a result of the number of omnibuses already on the streets; and whether, considering that by a greater use of the tube railways the congestion would be minimised, he will take any steps that are necessary to refuse sanctioning the licensing of any more omnibuses pending a general inquiry into the question of London traffic?
Mr. DAVIESThe answer to the first and second parts of the question is in the affirmative. I understand, however, that the new omnibuses are to some extent in replacement of older types which are being withdrawn. As regards the last part of the question, legislation would be required to enable licences to be refused on the ground of excessive numbers.