§ 98. Mr. ROBERT MURRAYasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport whether he is aware that passengers can travel with tourist tickets from London to Glasgow, but not from Glasgow to London, on the assumption 1037 apparently that London is less of a tourist centre than Glasgow, and that a passenger from London to Glasgow can have 100 lbs. of luggage carried free, whereas from Glasgow to London only 60 lbs. is allowed; and if he will use his influence to have these and similar railway anomalies remedied?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI am aware of the facts stated in the first part of the question, and I understand that it is not the practice of the railway companies to issue tourist tickets for journeys to London from other places. The matter has already been considered by the companies, who have not seen their way to vary the existing arrangements, and in the circumstances I do not see my way to take any action in the matter. I am informed that third-class passengers between London and Glasgow in either direction are allowed to take with them 100 lbs. of luggage free of charge.
§ Mr. MURRAYDoes the hon. and gallant Gentleman not think it is his duty to see that tourist ticket advantages are given to all parts of the country as well as to London?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI know what my duty is in the matter, but I have no power.
§ Mr. STURROCKIf the hon. and gallant Gentleman is powerless to act, can he tell us before which Department we can bring this matter, in order that they may bring it before the railway companies?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI have made representations to the railway companies, but I have only powers of persuasion.
§ Mr. W. THORNEThe hon. and gallant Gentleman states from time to time that he has no power. If that be so, what is the good of his office?