MR. JOHN ELLIS (Nottingham Rushcliffe)I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade whether the Board have any powers of regulating the width or inclination of entrances to, or exits from, railway sta- 1579 tions; and, if so, under what Act of Parliament; and whether any circular letters or rules have been issued or drawn up respecting the matter; and, if so, whether he will lay a copy of the same upon the Table?
§ SIR M. HICKS BEACHThe Board of Trade have no power to deal compulsorily with existing stations; but under the Regulation of Railways Act they have power to postpone the opening of any new stations for passenger traffic in cases where the inspecting officer thinks their opening would be attended with danger to the public. Under this Act the Board of Trade issues to Railway Companies a Schedule of the most important requirements made by their officers. This document, which is now under revision, stipulates for certain dimensions of the steps in staircases at railway stations, and I may say that I propose to consider whether any amendment is desirable in the direction indicated in the question.