§ 40. Miss LAWRENCEasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that, while a full-time service of trains is running on the London, Tilbury and Southend Railway, the staff on the permanent way are now only employed for three days a week; that complaints have been received from drivers and stationmasters as to the condition of the track, particularly as to keys having fallen out of the chairs of the rails; and whether he will inquire into this matter and take all necessary steps for the safeguarding of the public?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI have no information on these matters, and am not aware that the track of the railway mentioned is in an unsatisfactory condition. If, however, I am furnished with specific details of the complaints referred to in the latter part of the question, I will communicate with the railway company.
§ Miss LAWRENCEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that on the 15th a train 1216 was derailed at Romford, that on the 16th there was another derailment at the northern siding, and that on the 17th there were two more at the same siding?
§ Colonel ASHLEYIf the hon. Member will kindly send me those details in writing, I will at once investigate them.