asked the Minister of Transport which regulations prevent the provision, on omnibuses, tramcars, taximeter-cabs and other public vehicles, of adequate protection for their drivers against exposure to the weather?

There are no general regulations which would prevent the provision on public service vehicles of adequate protection for their drivers against exposure to the weather but there are, I understand, local regulations made by certain local licensing authorities limiting the use of windscreens on vehicles licensed to ply for hire.

Can the right hon. and gallant Gentleman say why a distinction should be made between these men and the drivers of ordinary private cars?

I think that question should be addressed to the local licensing authorities, which have power under the Police Clauses Act to license vehicles under certain restrictions.

In view of the very large number of servants of the London County Council, and in view of the very severe weather of the last two months, has the right hon. and gallant Gentleman had any recommendation at all from the London and Home Counties Traffic Advisory Committee as to the protection of these men, or does he know whether that committee has even considered it?

No such representations have been received.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that on certain country routes which are covered by both Metropolitan omnibuses and local omnibuses the Metropolitan omnibuses are obliged to forgo the protection which is available for those who do not come under the Police Regulations?

I think questions of the exercise of power in the Metropolitan Police district ought to be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary, who is responsible for the Metropolitan Police.