HC Deb 21 July 1942 vol 381 cc1401-2
38. Mr. William Brown

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether his attention has been drawn to the risk of accident to both vehicle and foot passengers by the excessive acceleration and fierce braking of trolley-omnibuses; and will he consult his technical advisers to see whether these defects can be remedied?

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport (Mr. Noel-Baker)

Experience in the operation of trolley-omnibuses has shown that their superior acceleration and braking have not, in practice, been detrimental to safety. I would, however, assure the hon. Gentleman that instructions have been given by operators to their staffs to ensure that trolley-omnibuses shall be so driven as to minimise both risk to the public and wear and tear on tyres.

39. Mr. Brown

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he is aware that drivers and con ductors of trolley-omnibuses complain that trolley-omnibus schedules in the London Passenger Transport area do not permit of their driving with sufficient regard for public safety; and will he undertake to have those schedules reviewed with a view to more time being allowed for journeys?

Mr. Noel-Baker

The London Passenger Transport Board assure me that they have no outstanding complaint about the time allowances on trolley vehicles schedules; nor have they any evidence that the running times are insufficient. The arrangements in force provide that if any difference on this point arise between the Board and the representatives of the men checks shall be taken. I may add that the reduced number of vehicles on the streets must clearly assist drivers to conform to schedule times.

Mr. Watkins

Has the hon. Gentleman received any representations from the men's trade union on this matter, and if he has not, may it not safely be left to that body?

Mr. Noel-Baker

I think that that is much the best plan. There have been no representations, and if there are, they can be made through the established machinery.