§ Mr. Pearsonasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Trans port whether the right previously granted to local authorities, of being notified in advance of any proposed alterations in fares, timetables, etc., can now be restored, thus removing a cause of irritation to the public?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerEarly in the war the Government decided that the licensing procedure under the Road Traffic Act, 1930, was not suitable to war-time needs and conditions and the frequent and rapid adjustments which these needs and conditions entail. Under Defence Regulations the licensing system was, therefore temporarily suspended by the Regional Transport Commissioners, and it was laid down that permits should be issued instead. It would not be practicable or desirable to restore the peace-time procedure in present circumstances, but I can assure my hon. Friend that the Commissioners give the most careful consideration to any representations made by local authorities about the services in their respective regions.