§ Mr. Peter DuncanTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what action he has taken to investigate claims of discrimination against Trans Consult Ltd. by his Department's traffic commissioners; [132425]
(2)what his assessment is of the economic impact of the alleged discrimination against Trans Consult Ltd. by his Department's traffic commissioners; [132426]
(3)if he will launch an independent inquiry into the alleged discrimination and conduct of his Department's traffic commissioners against (a) Trans Consult Ltd.,(b) its clients and(c) its agents; [132427]
684W(4)what the cost has been of bringing (a) small businesses, (b) farmers and (c) transport operators before public inquiries solely because they are connected to Trans Consult Ltd. [132428]
§ Dr. HowellsStatutorily independent Traffic Commissioners are responsible for deciding applications for the licence required by operators of public service vehicles and heavy goods vehicles and Ministers cannot interfere in their decisions. Commissioners must satisfy themselves that applicants meet statutory conditions about good repute, financial standing and professional competence. They are also responsible for taking action against licence holders who do not comply with the terms of their licence. Traffic Commissioners can call public inquiries to assist their investigations. These inquiries are treated as tribunals. Appeals must be made to the Transport Tribunal.