§ Mr. F. Noel-Bakerasked the Minister of Fuel and Power when he expects to reach a decision as to whether a private-hire licence can be granted to Mr. A. Caine, 63. Linden Gardens, Chiswick; and whether he will inform Mr. Caine as soon as possible of the decision taken.
§ Mr. ShinwellIn reply to his application of 4th June, Mr. Caine was informed that under the normal rule a supplementary petrol allowance could not be granted to enable him to operate a private hire car. He was advised, however, that an exception to the rule was made in the case of a disabled person on a recommendation by the Ministry of Labour that such a person was eligible for assistance under the Disabled Persons' (Employment) Act and that work, as owner driver of a hire car offered the best prospect of his satisfactory resettlement. On 16th June Mr. Caine applied for exceptional treatment as a disabled person and his case was referred to the Ministry of Labour on 23rd June. I understand that the case is under consideration by that Ministry in consultation with the Ministry of Pensions, and as soon as a report is received a decision will be taken and conveyed to Mr. Caine.