HC Deb 19 February 1937 vol 320 cc1519-20
1. Mr.Mander

asked the Minister of Transport whether he has any statement to make with reference to the refusal of the West Midland Traffic Commissioner to permit Wolverhampton motor-coach companies to run vehicles to Grimsby for the Wolverhampton Wanderers cup-tie on Saturday; and whether, in view of the great inconvenience likely to be caused to the many thousands of people desiring to make the trip, he will consider the possibility of the matter being reconsidered?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport (Captain Austin Hudson)

I regret that this is in no way a matter for my right hon. Friend; the only circumstance in which he could possibly have jurisdiction would be in the case of an appeal, and no appeal has been made.

Mr. Mander

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that great inconvenience will be caused to upwards of 10,000 people in Wolverhampton who want to go to Grimsby to-morrow to see the "Wolves" win, and that the railway journey is a very difficult cross-country one, and will he state the principles upon which the Commissioner decides in these matters?

Captain Hudson

No, Sir, because Parliament decided in 1930 that the Traffic Commissioners should be independent, and as such the Minister has no jurisdiction over what they do unless there is an appeal.

Mr. Mander

Will the Government consider some amendment of the law?