HC Deb 22 December 1919 vol 123 cc988-9
32. Mr. ATKEY

asked the Minister of Transport whether his refusal to instruct the Midland Railway Company to reopen the closed exit opposite Trent Street, Nottinghm, arises from the cost involved; and if he will state what the annual cost would be and give details as to how the total is arrived at?

Sir E. GEDDES

The cost which the reopening of the exit referred to would involve is, in view of the present necessity for economy, a consideration of importance. I am not in a position to add to the details of such cost, which are given in the report by the Chief Inspecting Officer of Railways, of which the hon. Gentleman was furnished with a copy in August last.

Lord H. CAVENDISH - BENTINCK

Will the right hon. Gentleman accept my assurance that the very greatest discomfort is experienced by passengers at Nottingham by this arrangement?

Dr. MURRAY

Why does the right hon. Gentleman take no notice of a question relating to the North-Western Highlands and answers questions on this everlasting gate every week?

Brigadier-General CROFT

When are the people of Nottingham to be given these facilities?

Sir E. GEDDES

It is believed the present facilities are adequate.

Lord H. CAVENDISH - BENTINCK

Can the right hon. Gentleman give the comparative cost of paying the demobilised soldiers' out-of-work donation and making this alteration?

Mr. SPEAKER

That requires notice.

34. Mr. ATKEY

asked the Minister of Transport whether he has considered the question of restoring the facilities to traders in the way of delivering to them their parcels arriving by passenger train; and whether he is aware that the limitation of the radius for delivery owing to the introduction of the eight-hours day has the effect of burdening the traders of Nottingham with an expense hitherto borne by the railway companies?

Sir E. GEDDES

I am at present. unable to add to the answer given to my hon. Friend and to the lion. Member for Rushriffe on the 17th November, in reply to similar questions.

Mr. ATKEY

Is it a fact that it is the policy of the right hon. Gentleman to pass part of the costs of railway administration on to traders?

Sir E. GEDDES

No, that is not a fact.

Mr. ATKEY

Is that not the result of what is now being done?

Sir E. GEDDES

No. It means that there is a reduction of this facility.