HC Deb 02 August 1939 vol 350 cc2362-3
37. Brigadier-General Clifton Brown

asked the Minister of Transport how many accidents have occurred on the Southern Railway during the last 12 months from people coming in contact with the live rail; and how many miles of the new protective fencing have been put up by the company during that period?

Captain Wallace

During the 12 months ended 27th July last, eight people were killed and 50 injured on the Southern Railway through contact with the live rail. The company inform me that during the 12 months ended 30th June last they have erected 57 miles of special fencing.

Brigadier-General Brown

In view of the promise that they would get on with the job of putting up protective fencing and the niggardly way in which they are carrying out that promise, and in view of the fact that all new roads are being protected, cannot my right hon. and and gallant Friend do something to hurry up the railways in protecting their lines?

Captain Wallace

Of course, the whole of the railway is fenced, and my answer refers only to special fencing at particular danger points. My chief inspector of railways tells me that he is satisfied with the progress which has been made by the Southern Railway in the matter.

Brigadier-General Brown

Is my hon. and gallant Friend aware that no one else is satisfied?

Lieut.-Colonel Acland-Troyte

Ought not the live rail to be called the death rail?

Captain Wallace

If it lived up to its name as a death rail, it would not be much good for running trains.