§ MR. LONSDALE (Armagh, Mid.)I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade whether he will state what results have attended the representations made to railway companies on the subject of the medical examination of engine-drivers, following upon Colonel Yorke's Report upon the accident near Atherton.
§ MR. CHURCHILLThe companies inform me that, generally speaking, engine-men are medically examined on entering the service, after illness or injury, and in any other case where the superior officer thinks it desirable. They add that they recognise that the subject is an important one, and that it will continue to receive their attention. The question is one of difficulty, and the Board of Trade is bound to consider the various and conflicting interests which are involved.
§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLasked if the attention of the right hon. Gentleman had been drawn to the case of the engine-driver who a few days ago dropped dead on his engine?
§ MR. HUDSON (Newcastle-on-Tyne)inquired if much irritation was not caused by the various standards of medical examination, and if the Board of Trade would be willing to set up one standard on its own authority?
§ MR. CHURCHILLreplied that he was aware of the CONFLICTING views, but he did not think the Board would be justified in making any new departure at present. The matter would be considered.