§ 15. Mr. LAWSONasked the Minister of Transport what protests he has received against the recent increase of omnibus fares in the Durham area; and whether he proposes to ask for the production of the books of the companies concerned in order to see how far these increased fares are justified?
Mr. STANLEYI have received certain representations from the Houghton Miners' Lodge and the Chester-le-Street Rural District Council, but no appeal against the relevant decisions of the Commissioners on this matter. In the absence of an appeal made in accordance with the provisions of the Act, I have no power to intervene.
§ Mr. LAWSONMay I ask whether it is possible for the council and the men's union to make representations?
Mr. STANLEYThere are provisions whereby the council, if they enter an objection, may appear before the Commissioners and may make an appeal.
§ Mr. LAWSONWill the hon. Gentleman answer the last part of the question as to whether it is proposed to ask for the production of the books of the companies concerned in order to see how far the increased fares are justified? As the hon. Gentleman is aware, a large number of omnibuses have been swept off the roads, and the companies are now in a better position.
Mr. STANLEYI think that the hon. Gentleman will realise that the answer to the second part of his question is implied in the answer to the first. Owing to the fact that no appeal has been lodged, I have no power to do anything.