§ 31. Mr. Messerasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he is aware of the in convenience caused to workers travelling home from work by the congestion caused by crowds of people leaving the grey hound racing-track at Harringay; whether he will consult with the Home Secretary with a view to arrangements being made for dog-racing to be held earlier in the day; and will he arrange for additional transport facilities to be provided.
§ Colonel LlewellinI have made inquiries and am assured that no serious inconvenience is caused to homeward-bound workers by Harringay racegoers. The hours of racing are fixed in consultation with the transport authorities so as to avoid overlap with the rush-hour traffic.
§ Mr. MesserWill the Minister have special investigations made, as I regret to say from my experience that the Answer is not in accordance with the facts?
§ Colonel LlewellinBefore answering my hon. Friend I had special inquiries made. The first race is at 7.30 in the evening, and the track is cleared at 10 p.m. These times do not as a rule conflict with the going home of the workers.
§ Mr. Rhys DaviesWill the right hon. and gallant Gentleman say whether dog racing is necessary for the national effort?
§ Colonel LlewellinThat is a matter of opinion.