HC Deb 16 April 1919 vol 114 cc2896-7
49. Mr. GILBERT

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction in London and the suburbs at the recent increases in fares by the railways, tubes, motor omnibuses, and tramways; whether he is aware of the overcrowded state of all these services, especially at the morning and evening crush hours; and whether, in view of the travelling population supplied by these various services, the Government will consider as to appointing a small Committee to inquire as to whether these necessary services should only be allowed to charge reasonable and maximum fares both for ordinary and season tickets, and as to whether such monopoly services should be compelled to supply proper and sufficient services to the public in return for the monopoly granted to them?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

The Prime Minister has asked me to reply to this question. The Board of Trade are aware of the position, but in view of the proposed establishment of a Ministry of Ways and Communications the present does not seem the time to set up a Committee such as suggested by the hon. Gentleman.

Mr. RENW1CK

Are these increases being made upon the initiative of the companies or have they been ordered by the Government; and can the hon. Gentleman say whether in either case or both cases the Government approve of the increase?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will put that question on the Paper.