§ 44. Mr. GOLDIEasked the Minister of Transport whether lie is aware of the excessive overcrowding now prevalent during rush hours on the suburban trains of the Metropolitan Railway; whether, as in the case of omnibuses, any regulations exist as to the numbers of seated and standing passengers permitted to travel in the carriages of such trains; if so, whether any and how frequent inspections are made by officials of his Department to ensure compliance therewith; and whether, in the interests of public safety and convenience, he will make representations to the London Passenger Transport Board with a view to the provision of more adequate accommodation?
§ The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Mr. Hore-Belisha)As regards the first part of my hon. and learned Friend's question, my attention has not recently been specifically called to any cases of excessive overcrowding during rush hours on the suburban trains of the Metropolitan Railway. As regards the second part, I have no power to control by regulation or otherwise the numbers of seated or standing passengers permitted to travel 667 in these trains. The answer to the third part of the question, therefore, does not arise. If, however, my hon. and learned Friend has any specific suggestions to make, I would bring them to the notice of the London Passenger Transport Board.
§ Mr. H. STEWARTIs the hon. Gentleman aware that those of us who have to travel on this line regard it as almost a public scandal, and will he ask for powers from Parliament to deal with this very serious matter?
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAThe last part of my answer to my hon. and learned Friend also applies to that question. If my hon. Friend has any specific suggestions to make, I will willingly bring them to the notice of London Passenger Transport.