§ Mr. Grovesasked the Minister of Transport whether he will state the number of inspectors engaged in the hackney carriage licensing department of the Metropolitan area and the manner in which the staff is recruited; whether those who satisfy themselves that the bodies of tramcars and omnibuses are safe for the conveyance of the travelling public are men who have had practical training in coach-building and not merely those with school instruction; and whether, if no such practice prevails, he will consult the representative of the National Union of Vehicle Builders to ensure that all available advice and experience is at the disposal of his Department?
§ Mr. BurginThe licensing of tramcars and omnibuses in the Metropolitan area is the responsibility of the Metropolitan Traffic Commissioner. He has the assistance of a staff of certifying officers and vehicle examiners, who are required to have had practical experience of the construction or maintenance of motor vehicles.