§ 67. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that considerable apprehension exists at the proposal of the London Passenger Transport Board to increase passenger fares, and that the adoption of this proposal will impose additional hardship on working-class passengers; and whether, in view of the public protests by municipal authorities and other bodies, he intends to take action to prevent such increases taking place?
Captain HudsonUnder the London Passenger Transport Act, 1933, jurisdiction in this matter is vested in the Railway Rates Tribunal. Any body or person desirous of attending or being heard at the hearing by the Tribunal must lodge a written notice of such desire and particulars of the objection with the Tribunal on or before Monday, 20th February.
§ Mr. SorensenDo I understand that the hon. Gentleman does not mean to take any action to safeguard the hundreds of thousands of working-class passengers against this possible increase of rates?
§ Mr. SorensenDo I understand that there is no connection between the Ministry of Transport and the tribunal to which he refers, and can he not use his influence?
Captain HudsonI cannot rightly bring influence to bear on a tribunal which has been made independent by this House.
§ Mr. ShinwellIs the Minister aware that thousands of persons utilising the facilities of the Transport Board are likely to be aggrieved by an increase in fares and have no opportunity to present their case to the tribunal? Cannot the Minister of Transport undertake that task?
Captain HudsonI think that the procedure laid down by Parliament for hearing appeals of this kind must be gone through. My right hon. Friend is keeping a very careful eye on the position.
§ Mr. SorensenIs not the right hon. Gentleman supposed to represent the general public as against particular interests?