§ 63. Mr. H. WILLIAMSasked the Minister of Transport whether he will make representations to the Southern Railway Company for the improvement of the train services between Victoria and the Crystal Palace, Sydenham, Forest Hill and Honor Oak Park?
§ Colonel ASHLEYAs my hon. Friend is aware, I have no direct control over railway train services, but I will bring to 1235 the notice of the railway company any specific suggestions he may have to make with regard to the services between the stations mentioned. I may add that I understand that the Southern Railway Company are considering the introduction of electrical traction on the remainder of their suburban lines, including those to which my hon. Friend refers.
§ Mr. DALTONWill the right hon. Gentleman take into account the necessity for an additional tube railway in South-East London?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThe whole question is under review.
§ Mr. W. BAKERIs it not a fact that the electric train service between Victoria and the Crystal Palace has been greatly worsened since the new electrification scheme has been introduced between Victoria and Thornton Health?
§ 64 Mr. WILLIAMSalso asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware of the condition, which has steadily been becoming worse, of many of the stations on the line between Norwood Junction and London Bridge; and whether he will take steps to get the Southern Railway Company to remedy this state of affairs?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThe responsibility for the proper upkeep of railway stations rests with the railway companies, and I have no control over them in this respect. I will, however, bring my hon. Friend's complaint to the notice of the railway company concerned if he will give me some further particulars of the defects which, in his opinion, require to be remedied.
§ Mr. W. THORNEWill the Government consider the desirability of taking over this railway and working it themselves?