HC Deb 19 February 1941 vol 369 cc139-40
22 and 23. Mr. Vernon Bartlett

asked the Minister of Transport (1) whether the validity of workmen's tickets on the railways will be extended to cover a period of two days, for fire-watchers who have to spend the nights at their works or offices; (2) whether he can arrange that workmen's tickets on the railways should be available for fire-watchers proceeding to their duties in the evening?

Lieut.-Colonel Moore-Brabazon

I do no think that it would be fair to the railway companies to place on them the cost of extending workmen's fares in the manner suggested. The concession to full-time Civil Defence workers, which I announced on 30th January, in reply to the hon. Member for Stratford (Mr. Groves), is, however, being extended to fire-watchers, who normally avail themselves of workmen's tickets, when travelling between their homes and workplaces.

Mr. Bartlett

Does that mean that people who are trying very hard to carry on with their ordinary, essential jobs and are, at the same time, doing one night a week at fire-watching, will get no benefit at all?

Lieut.-Colonel Moore-Brabazon

They certainly get benefit, but it will be impossible to extend it without very grave inquiry. We are all fire-fighting now, and this suggestion really means a reduction of fares throughout the country.

Mr. Bartlett

Surely there are certain areas where fire-watchers are very badly needed. The burden on them is already very great; should it not, as far as possible, be spread throughout the nation?

Lieut.-Colonel Moore-Brabazon

I have already said that I have considered this matter.

Mr. G. Strauss

Would there actually be a burden on the railway companies? They would not be carrying more passengers and would not be losing revenue.

Lieut.-Colonel Moore-Brabazon

I think so. A larger number of people would travel at reduced rates.