HC Deb 21 October 1942 vol 383 cc1962-3
43. Mr. Parker

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he is aware that railway season tickets are available at half rate to juveniles under the age of 18 if their wages do not exceed 25s. weekly; that the increase in the cost of living has been followed by the granting of war bonuses which have largely removed this advantage; and whether the wage level concerned can now be raised to 30s. a week?

Mr. Noel-Baker

The maximum wage qualification for season tickets at juvenile rates was increased in December, 1940, from 18s. to 25s. per week. This increase reasonably corresponds with the increase in the cost of living, and I do not think it would be wise to adopt my hon. Friend's proposal,

Mr. Parker

Is my hon. Friend aware that there are a great many juveniles who do not get high wages and that those who have to travel long distances suffer very much from the present arrangement?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Those who do not get more than 25s. will still be able to get tickets at half rate. For the others there must always be difficult borderline cases, but the increase made 18 months ago still reasonably corresponds to the increase in the cost of living.

Mr. Parker

Does my hon. Friend think that 25s. for a lad of 17 is a reasonable wage?

Mr. Noel-Baker

That is a different question. I am dealing only with the increase in cost.