§ MR. FIELD (Dublin, St. Patrick)To ask the Secretary to the Board of Trade whether he will consider the advisability of introducing a systematic inspection of signalmen by surprise visits; whether he can arrange that in the more important signal boxes, where trains very frequently pass, a sufficient number of signalmen should be on duty, and also that the hours of service should be in ratio with the activity required; and whether the existing method of points and sidings will be considered with a view to greater safety.
(Answered by Mr. Bonar Law.) If representations are made on behalf of the signalmen at any particular place that their hours of duty are excessive, such representations will be dealt with under the Railway Regulation Act of 1893. The question of safety in the working of points and sidings is one that receives the unremitting attention of the inspecting officers of the Board of Trade. 1312 The other matters raised by the hon. Member do not seem to come within the powers of the Department.