HC Deb 01 April 1913 vol 51 cc304-5

Order for Second Reading read.

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Bill be now read a second time."

Mr. BOOTH

I have no criticism to offer generally with regard to this proposal. It seems to me one of the ordinary natural developments of the railway system, and I am sure that the House will wish that the railway company should have those small additional powers which are referred to in this Bill added to it from time to time so that it may more efficiently serve the public; but this is the only opportunity one has of raising the general question of the administration of the railways, and a point which has concerned me very much has been the Sunday work, particularly as it applies to stationmasters. With regard to this Bill, I can say that the company have been good enough to supply me with very specific information as to their Sunday traffic. I will give the information to any hon. Member who cares to read the letter. It is quite clear that they have only a very few Sunday trains, and that they treat their staff in a most satisfactory manner. I am pleased to acknowledge that, and to say that anyone who has the genuine interests of the stationmasters at heart can compliment the railway company on the handsome manner in which they treat their staff.

Question put, and agreed to.

Bill read a second time, and referred to the Examiners of Petitions for Private Bills.