§ MR. WARDLE (Stockport)I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the statements made by deputations to his Department in connection with recent railway accidents, suggesting that brakes are in use on some of the railways which are faulty in design or construction: and, if so, whether he proposes to take any action in the matter.
§ MR. CHURCHILLThe attention of the Board of Trade was drawn to certain suggestions of this character by the Chief Inspecting Officer of Railways in January last, and also by deputations since that date. The Board have for some time been in communication with the principal railway companies thereon, with a view to a thorough investigation of various types of brake. This suggestion has been favourably received, and it is understood that the necessary steps are now being 1561 taken for an examination which will be carefully followed by the expert officials of the Board of Trade.
§ MR. WARDLEwas understood to ask if it was intended that the inquiry should apply to the continuous brakes used by all railways.
§ MR. CHURCHILLasked for notice, and added that the railway companies were doing their best to help the inquiry.