§ 23. Mr. DEVLINasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that dissatisfaction exists amongst workers in the outlying districts of Belfast at the increased weekly fares on the railway; whether he is aware that the workmen's train has been changed from 5.10 a.m. to 7.20 a.m. to meet the new conditions of work, but that the fares on this train have been considerably increased in view of the comparatively short distances travelled; and whether he will take action to remedy this grievance?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI am afraid I cannot add to the reply on this subject given to the hon. Gentleman on the 10th March.
§ Mr. DEVLINMay I ask whether, as the workers are compelled, owing to the lack of housing accommodation in Belfast, to live at considerable distances from the city, he will ask the railway companies to revise the railway fares?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANWe have been in communication with the railway companies, but I cannot add anything to what I have already said.
§ Mr. DEVLINCan he say how long his Department has been in communication with the railway companies?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI cannot say how long.
§ Mr. DEVLINWill the hon. Gentleman ask the railway companies to speed this matter up?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI will ask them to give further consideration to it.