HC Deb 01 July 1931 vol 254 cc1268-9
32. Mr. BROCKWAY

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the medical officer of health for Leyton, in his report for 1930, states that the overcrowding in the trains from the City to Leyton exposes the travelling public to risks of infection; and whether he is prepared to take action to provide better travelling facilities from the City to Leyton?

Mr. HERBERT MORRISON

I am aware of the observations contained in the report referred to with respect to train services between the City and Leyton. I am, however, informed by the railway company that a recent examination of the loading of the trains in each direction on this section of the line discloses that, taken as a whole, the seating accommodation is adequate, but that it happens in some instances that while there are vacant seats in the front part of the trains, at the rear passengers are standing. I also understand that the trains are being run to their maximum length, and that owing to the volume of traffic passing over the line it is not possible to increase the service by running additional trains during the peak hours.

Mr. BROCKWAY

Was not the investigation by the railway company made at least a year ago? May I ask whether the differences in view between the railway company and the borough council and the people of Leyton would not justify an independent investigation by the Ministry of Transport?

Mr. MORRISON

I am not sure when the inquiry was undertaken. I would remind my hon. Friend that there was lately an elaborate inquiry into the travelling facilities in East and North-East London, an outcome of which was a recommendation that much could be done towards improvement by proper coordination, which is being undertaken under the London Passenger Transport Bill.

Mr. THORNE

Are there any negotiations for a new railway down to Ching-ford and to Romford?

Mr. MORRISON

That might be one of the happy consequences of the London Passenger Traffic Bill. I see no other way of doing it.