asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he is taking within the metropolitan area to safeguard the drivers of minicabs and their families from the attacks and intimidation to which they have been subjected.

I am assured by the Commissioner of Police that no special instructions on this matter are necessary. Any cases which come to the notice of the police will be adequately dealt with.

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what further reports he has received from the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis about violent incidents involving minicab and taxicab drivers; and whether he will make a statement.

Between 28th June and 17th July, six allegations of assaults on minicab drivers came to the notice of the Metropolitan Police. In one case the Metropolitan Police have instituted proceedings for common assault, among other charges. In another the Ministry of Civil Aviation Police have instituted proceedings for causing actual bodily harm. Inquiries are continuing in a third. In the remaining cases police inquiries were unsuccessful or those concerned were advised to consider seeking civil remedies.