HC Deb 28 June 1920 vol 131 cc10-1
16. Mr. GILBERT

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will state the number of special race trains run by the railway companies to Ascot during the race week; whether any or all of these trains were run at ordinary fares; and, if not, what excess over ordinary rates was charged to passengers?

Sir E. GEDDES

The number of special trains run on the London and South Western Railway to and from Ascot during the race week was:

To Ascot … … 187
From Ascot … … 170
On 24 trains the ordinary fares were charged—the special fares charged on the remainder ranged from 25 to 33 per cent. above the ordinary present day rates.

Mr. HOGGE

If it is possible to give this increase of trains for these special purposes, why cannot the right hon. Gentleman make it his business to see that there is an increased train service for ordinary people coming up to town and going back at night?

Major BARNES

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the workmen's trains on Tyneside the conditions of crowding are so great as to be a positive danger to life?

Mr. SPEAKER

That is a long way from Ascot?

Sir E. GEDDES

As far as I know, within the ability of the companies to run regular services they are meeting, as adequately as possible, the needs of the general travelling public. In this case, in order to get increased revenue, a large number of special trains were run at increased fares.