HC Deb 24 June 1915 vol 72 cc1320-1
18. Mr. HOGGE

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has received representations from the churches in Scotland with reference to the hardship imposed upon churches and probationers by the withdrawal of week-end fares; and whether he is prepared to allow the old charges to stand?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Pretyman)

I have received the representations referred to, but I am afraid that I cannot hold out any hope of the restoration at present of the facilities to which my hon. Friend alludes.

Mr. HOGGE

Is my hon. Friend aware that this is a perfectly usual practice in Scotland, and these congregations are scattered all over Scotland, and are depleted on account of the number of men who have joined the Army, including ministers, and this is the only means by which they can receive spiritual service on Sunday, and under those circumstances will he make a point to consider the question?

Mr. PRETYMAN

The matter has been fully considered and with very great sympathy, but there are so many similar requests also deserving great sympathy that it would be impossible to grant this.

Mr. SNOWDEN

Seeing that there are so many cases where hardship is being inflicted by the withdrawal of week-end facilities, would not the best way be to restore the lot?

Mr. PRETYMAN

From that point of view yes, but the first consideration now is the national necessity for the use of the railways.

Mr. HOGGE

Is my hon. Friend aware that the facilities to commercial travellers are continued because theirs is a regular profession, and this is the same, only it applies to the Sunday observances in Scotland, and may I ask the hon. Gentleman if it is not in the same class with week-end fares for special camps or anything of that sort?

Mr. SPEAKER

I think that is all argumentative, and all round the same point.

19. Mr. SNOWDEN

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will approach the railway companies with a suggestion that the widows and children of fallen soldiers should be given free tickets or very cheap tickets to enable them to obtain a seaside or country holiday, which they very much need after the awful strain and suspense they have endured?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Mr. Forster)

I will bring to the notice of the railway companies my hon. Friend's suggestion, but while I sympathise with his object I am afraid that it will not be found to be practicable.