§ Mr. Cary(by Private Notice) asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he has any information to give to the House about the serious railway accident which took place at Eccles station on Tuesday, 30th December?
§ Colonel LlewellinThis unfortunate accident occurred at 8.20 a.m. during a dense fog, when one passenger train came into sidelong collision with another travelling in the opposite direction. I regret to say that 20 passengers were fatally injured and 81 others and two enginemen were detained in hospital. Great assistance 42 was rendered by local rescue parties and I should like to thank them for their prompt help. An Inspecting Officer of Railways has been appointed to hold an inquiry and until his report has been received I am not in a position to make any statement as to the cause. I am sure I am expressing the feelings of the House in conveying our sympathy to the relatives of those who lost their lives and with those who were injured.
§ Mr. CaryIs my right hon. and gallant Friend aware of the difficult circumstances which attended this accident? It was pitch dark at the time, there was a thick fog, and in some cases operations had to be performed at the side of the track and on the station platform by the light of bonfires, and therefore, my right hon. and gallant Friend's reference to the work of the local services, particularly the A.R.P. services, will be much appreciated. In addition, may I ask my right hon. and gallant Friend whether he can say when the inquiry is likely to be completed?
§ Colonel LlewellinI am afraid I cannot say when it will be completed, but I would like to endorse what my hon. Friend said about the work of both the railway staff and the A.R.P. personnel, who so promptly came and gave such valuable help.
§ Mr. Benjamin SmithWas automatic signalling in operation, or was there the old hand system?
§ Colonel LlewellinI cannot say without notice.