§ 15. Mr. W. Shepherdasked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he has considered representations from the Hackney Carriage Operators complaining of irregularities in connection with the use of petrol adversely affecting their business; and what steps he is taking in this respect.
§ Mr. GaitskellThe representations made by the deputation from the National Car Hire Association were primarily concerned with the question of the distances within which hire cars and taxicabs are allowed to operate and my right hon. Friend has these representations under consideration. Suggestions were also made that irregular use of petrol is involved. The deputation were informed that investigations are regularly carried out by the Ministry's inspectors in connnection with suspected illegal acquisition and supply and misuse of petrol and proceedings are taken in suitable cases. All cases reported to the Ministry by the Association have been examined and only in a few cases has there been found any basis for the allegations.