HC Deb 28 February 1921 vol 138 cc1397-8
24. Captain TERRELL

asked the Minister of Transport if he can make any definite statement as to the intention of the railway companies to run special trains at Easter, Whitsuntide, and in the summer holidays; and whether, and to what extent, excursion fares are to be reintroduced?

Sir E. GEDDES

The railway companies propose to run during the Easter holidays special day excursion trains at a single fare for the double journey, and period excursions, outward journey on Thursday before Easter and return journey Monday or Tuesday after Easter, but not both days, at single faro and one-third for the double journey, with a minimum for period excursions of 15s. The excursion tickets will be valid in each direction by special trains only, but provision will be made in certain instances for excursion passengers to travel for some portion of the journey by ordinary trains connecting with places not served by the special excursion trains. It is the intention to give excursion facilities at Whitsuntide, and during the summer holidays in all possible cases where increased earnings will result, and arrangements are now under the consideration of the railway companies.

Captain TERRELL

When may we expect an announcement in connection with the excursion trains for Whitsuntide?

Sir E. GEDDES

As soon as arrangements are made.

Dr. MURRAY

Is it the intention to give facilities for steamer traffic?

Sir E. GEDDES

I have nothing to do with steamers unless they are owned by railway companies.

Sir H. BRITTAIN

Will the right hon. Gentleman answer for those steamers, of which there are many, owned by railway companies?

Sir E. GEDDES

I shall be glad if my hon. Friend will put down a question.

Mr. R. McLAREN

Seeing that the Easter holidays are now becoming very popular in Scotland, will this apply to the Scottish railways?

Sir E. GEDDES

Yes, it applies to all railways.

Mr. W. THORNE

Is there any possibility of arriving at an agreement with the railway companies so that short distance travelling people will be able to get some reduction during the Easter and Whitsuntide holidays, and not fix the minimum at 15s.?

Sir E. GEDDES

Short-distance trains do not pay.

Mr. THORNE

Is that the reason you are not going to give these people any privilege?

Sir E. GEDDES

We have to look at what will pay.

Mr. THORNE

You have to take, the swings with the roundabouts!