HC Deb 28 May 1894 vol 24 cc1419-20
MR. CHANNING (Northampton, E.)

I beg to ask the Secretary to the Board of Trade whether the inquiries by Board of Trade Inspectors into railway accidents have, with one or two exceptions, been confined to train accidents; whether, on the average of the past 10 years, the fatalities among railway men in shunting, coupling and uncoupling vehicles, marshalling trains, plate laying, fogsignalling, and other duties have been from 40 to 50 times as numerous as the fatalities to railway servants in the train accidents investigated by Inspectors; and whether, having regard to the importance of accurately determining the causes of these fatalities in accidents other than train accidents, the Board of Trade is now prepared to appoint two or more practical railway men as sub-Inspectors to investigate such accidents, and for other duties?

MR. BURT

Without fully admitting the accuracy of the figures quoted by my hon. Friend, I am in a position to say that the Board of Trade recognise the importance of the subject, and that the question of the appointment of one or more practical railway men as sub-Inspectors is under the immediate consideration of Her Majesty's Government.

MR. CHANNING

Has any decision been arrived at?

MR. BURT

A decision has practically been arrived at.

MR. CHANNING

In favour of the proposal?

MR. BURT

In favour.