HC Deb 17 May 1922 vol 154 cc361-2
70. Mr. CAIRNS

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport if he is aware that the public travel from Bedlington A pit to Bedlington tor. pit, in Northumberland, on the railway side, and that the engine drivers complain of the great danger of people travelling on this railway; and, if so, will he cause a pass-by to be made so that the public can travel with safety?

The SECRETARY for MINES (Mr. Bridgeman)

I have been asked to reply. This matter has been carefully investigated by the inspectors of mines on more than one occasion at the instance of the National Union of Railwaymen. The colliery company has lighted the whole length of line next to which persons walk, as a safeguard against accident during the hours of darkness; and I am advised there is no evidence sufficient to establish that this siding is now dangerous or defective. This being so, I have no powers to intervene further.

Mr. CARNS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that men have been travelling between these two points for 40 years or more?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I do not know whether the hon. Gentleman means that as an argument for my interfering or not.

Mr. CAIRNS

I am giving it as information.