§ MR. LAWSON (St. Pancras, W.)asked the Secretary to the Board of Trade, Whether he is aware that there is no improvement in the condition of the North London Railway Bridge in the Chalk Farm Road, N.W.; what was the result of his inquiries, and what action the Board of Trade has taken; and, whether he is aware of the constant complaints by those persons who live in the neighbourhood of this railway bridge, and others, of the nuisance and injury inflicted in this way; and, if it is possible to ensure reasonable provision for diminishing the perpetual noise and rumbling?
§ THE SECRETARY (Baron HENRY DE WORMS) (Liverpool, East Toxteth)The Board of Trade are not aware that the bridge referred to is in an unsatisfactory condition so far as the railway traffic is concerned; and they have no statutory power to take any action with regard to the noise or inconvenience that is alleged to be occasioned by the passing of traffic over railway structures. As the hon. Member is aware, the Board of Trade communicated with the Railway Company last year, and their reply was seen by him. The Board of Trade have again communicated with the Company, who state that the Directors have under consideration the possibility of adopting certain modifications in the construction 269 of the bridge, in the hope that the I sound of passing trains may be diminished.