§ 44. Mr. KELLAWAYasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if it is proposed to hold any inquiry into the causes of the two recent tramcar and motor omnibus accidents in London, in which a large number of persons were injured?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Burns)My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. As regards the tramway accident that occurred on the Embankment at the corner of Blackfriars Bridge on the 11th instant, an inspecting officer of the Board of Trade visited the scene of the accident and also examined the car that caused the collision. I am now considering his report with a view of deciding whether a formal inquiry is necessary. I understand that the Home Office have no authority to hold formal inquiries into accidents to motor omnibuses, but the circumstances are investigated by the police with a view to ascertaining whether proceedings should be instituted against any of the persons concerned.
§ Mr. KELLAWAYDo I understand that the Board of Trade have power to order an inquiry into a tramway accident, but that they have not power in the case of a motor bus accident other than by taking proceedings?