HC Deb 28 March 1961 vol 637 cc123-4W
Mr. Collick

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware of the difficulties which crippled and handicapped people have in using the new type of London taxicab, particularly because of the height of the floor from ground level, the absence of a step, and the curved floor; and if he will continue to require, when licensing taxicabs, that the former specifications should be followed for passenger convenience.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I understand that the Deputy-Commissioner of Police, whom I have appointed to license taxis in the Metropolitan Police District, is aware of these difficulties and will bear them in mind in considering any specifications which may be submitted by manufacturers and the trade for a new model of taxicab. Following discussions between the Deputy-Commissioner and the manufacturers, the floor of the current Austin cab is being modified to reduce the curve to negligible proportions.