HC Deb 12 December 1985 vol 88 cc772-3W
Mr. Bidwell

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if, when he next meets the chairman of the British Airports Authority, he will raise with him the current dispute between the authority and licensed taxi drivers at Heathrow; and if he will make a statement.

Dr. Glyn

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if, when he next meets the chairman of the British Airports Authority, he will raise with him the surcharge levied by the British Airports Authority on taxi drivers.

Mr. Michael Spicer

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State meets the chairman of BAA regularly to discuss a variety of issues. The introduction of a charge for entry to the taxi feeder park at Heathrow is a matter for the BAA. The Government support the principle of the recovery of costs from those who benefit from the provision of facilities.

Mr. Bidwell

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what has been the effect of the current dispute between licensed taxi drivers and the British Airports Authority on (a) road safety and (b) traffic flow on those roads near Heathrow for which he is responsible.

Mr. David Mitchell

I am advised that neither the police nor our agent authority have observed any changes either in road safety or traffic flows.

Mr. Bidwell

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received on the effect of the current dispute between licensed taxi drivers and the British Airports Authority on (a) the maintenance of public order and (b) the uninterrupted movement of passengers and vehicles at Heathrow; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

Neither I nor my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Home Department have received any representations on these aspects of the dispute.

Dr. Glyn

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what account he takes of charges imposed by the British Airports Authority on taxi drivers when setting the fare structure; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

I have taken account of these charges but decided that it was unnecessary to provide for a surcharge on fares from Heathrow airport. I will, however, review the situation if, in the longer term, these charges affect the supply of taxis at Heathrow.