decided.

And the licensing period for carriages will be April 1-March 31, not December 1-November 30.

The moves were approved on Friday when the House of Assembly passed the Public Carriage Amendment Act 1993.

Transport Minister the Hon. Ralph Marshall said the changes were wanted by carriage owners.

He said April, before the tourism season, was deemed a more suitable time for carriages to be examined for roadworthiness.

It would ensure the vehicles were in good shape for visitors, Mr. Marshall explained.

Progressive Labour Party MPs said they saw no objections to the changes, which come into effect on April 1.

MPs also considered the Public Carriage (Operations and Conditions of Hire) Amendment Regulations 1993.

Under this, single and two-horse carriages will have the same rate, $20, for up to four passengers for half an hour.

With five or more passengers for two-horse carriages, the rate will go up to $5 per head for every half hour.

Mr. Marshall said two youngsters under 12 would pay a single adult's fare.

Shadow Transport Minister Mr. Walter Lister described horse and carriages as part of the Bermudian tradition.

He saw no problems with the proposed legislation, supporting it in principle.

Deputy PLP leader Mr. Walter Roberts also had no opposition, although he said some people were concerned about horse droppings.

Mr. Marshall , however, did not believe horse droppings to be a major issue.