§ Mr. Bendallasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will 16W make a statement on the progress of his discussions with the London taxi trade on its applications for increased fares.
§ Dr. SummerskillRepresentatives of the London taxi trade were informed by the Home Office on 3 January that the Government were prepared to agree to an increase in London taxi fares which takes account of the recommendations of the Price Commission and is based on the increase in cab operating costs, with an allowance for increased earnings consistent with the Government's earnings guidelines. After consideration and further talks with the Home Office, the trade suggested modifications to the Government's proposals. These are now the subject of discussions between it and the Home Office.