56. Mr. Gresham Cookeasked the Minister of Transport why the driving-licence authority situated at 84, Uxbridge Road, Ealing, took three weeks to issue a licence, the application for which was received by that office on 5th May; and what steps are being taken to speed up these issues so as to allow the public to use vehicles otherwise licensed.
§ Mr. Tom FraserThe office referred to is controlled by the Greater London Council. The delay, which has generally been less than three weeks, is regretted. I understand that there was an acute shortage of experienced staff when the Council assumed responsibility for this work in April. This is now being overcome and it is hoped that the delay will be substantially reduced in the near future.