HC Deb 23 February 1944 vol 397 cc822-3
65. Captain Bernays

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he will state the circumstances under which the railway companies, on long-distance trains for London, may be requested to label carriages "Not for public use," other than in the case of the Admiralty courier, or official troop movements.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Among the other circumstances which are held to warrant labelling a compartment with the notice "not for public use" are the conveyance of prisoners and certain other special journeys about the nature of which I would ask my hon. and gallant Friend not to press me for particulars.

Mr. Keeling

Why could not such compartments be reserved for Overseas Airways passengers, so as to avoid running special trains for them?

Mr. Noel-Baker

That is another question, which my hon. Friend would have to put to the Secretary of State for Air.

Mr. E. Walkden

Would the Minister assure us that he will keep a close watch on these labels, as certain privileged persons seem, for a good-sized tip, to be able to obtain the use of the labels unlawfully?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Yes, Sir, I will watch the matter, and if my hon. Friend will give me any evidence of abuse I will go into it.