Operating Aspects of
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Passenger Transport
OFFICIAL INQUIRY INTO LONDON COACH BAN'
The Minister of Transport Takes a Wise Step To.. wards Settling an Important Question of Principle UP to the present the Minister of Transport has received notices of several appeals against recent decisions of the Metropolitan Traffic Commissioner on applications for road-service licences, these appeals relating more particularly to stipulations regarding the limitations of stopping places and the exclusion of motor coaches from the central area of London, also the restriction of the London coach services generally. It is apparent that more appeals will be lodged when the Commissioner's final decisions on other applications have been given.
In view of the seriousness of the whole question and the speculation
which has prevailed, as to how, under thi.s severe test, the appeal system set up by the Road Traffic Act would deal with a problem affecting so intimately the travel facilities afforded to Londoners, it is interesting to learn that the Minister, appreciating the important questions of principle that are involved has appointed a committee of three to inquire into the matter.
Lord Araulree is to be the chairman, and Sir Hardman Lever and Sir Henry Maybnry are to assist him. It is intended to refer to this committee a sufficient number of appeals to enable a comprehensive view of the position to be taken.
The function of the committee will be to investigate the questions that arise upon these appeals, with particular reference to matters of principle and general policy, to hear the representations of the parties concerned and, finally, to report with recommendations to the Minister of Transport, whose duty, of course, it is to determine the appeals.