§ 42. Mr. Kellyasked the Minister of Transport whether steps will be taken to deal with the overcrowding on the trains of the underground railway, particularly the line to Hendon and Edgware; and, in view of the London Passenger Transport Board Bill, will action be taken to prevent this dangerous overcrowding becoming worse?
Captain HudsonI am informed by the London Passenger Transport Board that various new works are in progress, and one of the objects of these is the relief of the Edgware line. The doubling of the single track and the electrification of the London and North Eastern branch line between Finchley and Edgware, and the running of tube trains over this line via Highgate (upon which traffic to-day is lighter) will provide a parallel route to the Board's existing railway. In addition, the Morden-Edgware line will be equipped with more spacious rolling stock, and when these steps have been carried out, it is anticipated that present conditions will be eased.
§ Mr. KellyWill the Minister use his good offices in order to have something done immediately as there is every likelihood of accidents of a serious nature? If he would take a journey during the rush hours he might find a place on a train, but I doubt it.
§ Mr. EmmottIs the Minister aware that this problem of overcrowding affects a larger area than that mentioned in the question? It forms a subject of complaint so far away as Oxted in Surrey.
Captain HudsonWe do our best in conjunction with the railway companies and the London Passenger Transport Board to meet this difficulty. It is a problem of difficulty.