CONTROL OF TAXIS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22774, 7 July 1937, Page 12

CONTROL OF TAXIS

ANTICIPATING LEGISLATION FIRST STEP IN CHRISTCHURCH [by TKLEGRAPH —OWN correspondent] WELLINGTON, Tuesday A warrant is being published in this week's Gazette bringing taxis in Christchurch under the provision of the Transport Act, following the report of the commission on the unsatisfactory conditions in that industry, and a request by taxi owners to take this step without -waiting for legislation. Tho Christchurch City Council will be the licensing authority with the right of appeal to the Minister of Transport, tho Hon. R. Semple, who considers that the new system will make considerable improvement in conditions both for the public and the operators. "It is my intention," said Mr. Semple to-day, "to -watch tho developments closely and ensure that chaotic conditions and exploitation of drivers will be definitely things of tho past. Legislation for similar action throughout the Dominion will bo introduced next session, and it -will be circulated at an early date for general information. There are full legal powers to take action similar to that taken in Christchurch, and such action is in fact under consideration, but it is not my intention to use the available powers unless the parties are agreeable, or until Parliament has had an opportunity of considering the matter."