HC Deb 27 June 1916 vol 83 c726
60. Mr. BIRD

asked whether the Government will approach the railway companies with a view to their running excursion trains at cheaper fares during 6th, 8th, and 9th August, Saturday Monday and Tuesday, for the two Bank Holidays, subject to military exigencies, in order to provide those engaged upon Government work with the necessary change of air and environment to enable them to recover health and strength after their prolonged labours at high pressure during the past few months?

The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Mr. Harcourt)

I am informed by the railway companies that they think that with their depleted staffs it will be as much as they can do to handle the traffic which is expected on their lines on the occasion of the August holidays, and that it will not therefore be practicable for them to run excursion trains at reduced fares, as suggested by the hon. Gentleman.