§ 79. Colonel DAYasked the MinisterofTransport whether he is aware of the great congestion and overcrowding on the local sections of the Southern Railway which takes place, especially during the hours of 7.30 and 0 a.m. and between the hours of 5 p.m. and 7.30 p.m., and that passengers are put to great inconvenience by long delays, waits, and breakdowns of rolling stock; will he state what definite steps are being taken by the company towards improving the situation by modern rolling stock, as was promised for many years; and whether the company arc endeavouring to accelerate the service by any improved signalling system?
§ The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)I am afraid that some congestion cannot be entirely avoided during the peak hours. So far as the Southern Railway is concerned the scheme of suburban electrification now being carried out is designed to improve the conditions in question. In connection with this scheme new or reconstructed rolling stock is being provided and the seals modernised and improved
§ Colonel DAYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the rush hours sometimes there are frequently as many as 20 people in compartments which Formally should hold 10?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI am aware that sometimes happens, but, as I stated in the answer, you cannot entirely do away 1449 with congestion when everyone is anxious to travel between certain hours of the day