49. Major BARNESasked the Minister of Transport if his attention has been drawn to the overcrowding on the railways in the Tyneside area, particularly on the riverside and Blythe routes; and whether, seeing that the conditions so created involve danger to human life, he will make representations to the company concerned?
§ Sir E. GEDDESThe railway company is handicapped by the loss through fire of 34 electric coaches. On the Benton, Wallsend and riverside route, the trains have been strengthened; shortage of stock prevents the trains on the coast route via Benton being strengthened between 5 and 6 p.m., the crowded hours. New vehicles are under construction.