§ 64. Dr. CHAPPLEasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the railway corporations in the United States insist upon total abstinence in those of their employés who, being in charge of trains as engine drivers or guards, have in their keeping the lives and limbs of the travelling public; and whether he will take any steps that would ensure to the train travellers in Britain a like protection?
Mr. BUXTONI am not aware whether total abstinence on the part of enginemen and guards is a requirement on the railways of the United States. As my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade informed my hon. Friend in reply to a question yesterday, the matter is primarily one of discipline, and I think the railway companies are fully aware of their responsibilities for the safety of the travelling public.
§ Mr. J. H. THOMASIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the number of railway accidents in this country in proportion to the number of passengers carried is less than on any railway system——
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member must give notice of that.
§ Dr. CHAPPLEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that recently a man was fined for being drunk while in charge of a signal-box? Does he not think that inquiry along these lines might lead to greater safety for the public?