HC Deb 30 March 1926 vol 193 cc1834-5
58. Mr. LOOKER

asked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that the workmen's train running between Grays, Tilbury, and Thames Haven daily is shortly to be discontinued; that there are over 400 workers who travel to and from Thames Haven by this means alone from London, Gravesend and other places, and that the discontinuance of this service will handicap these workmen in getting to and from their work; and will he make representations to the London Midland and Scottish Railway Company with a view to getting them to reconsider the decision to discontinue the train?

Colonel ASHLEY

The railway company inform me that this workmen's train service is run under an agreement between the company and certain traders, who have given notice to terminate the present arrangement. I understand, however, that the matter is still the subject of negotiations between the parties.

Mr. LOOKER

Have the workmen no protection against the removal of trains of this description?

Colonel ASHLEY

I should not like to answer very definitely without notice on a legal point like that, but undoubtedly where the companies have to carry people at workmen's fares a certain number of trains should be provided.