HC Deb 01 November 1944 vol 404 cc783-4
22. Mr. F. Anderson

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport if his attention has been called to the death of Mr. Peter Cosgrove of Whitehaven, who was travelling on the Maryport-Carlisle stretch of the L.M.S. railway early in September; 1944, and when close to Bullgill station opened the window to let out the smoke from the compartment and caught his head at the Ellen Hall bridge; why these compartments are not safeguarded by window rods as is the case on the Manchester to Oldham length and thus avoid the possibility of accidents of this description; and what steps have been taken to prevent a recurrence.

Mr. Noel-Baker

I have received a full report on this unfortunate accident at Bullgill. I understand that it would be difficult to adopt my hon. Friend's proposal that bars should be fitted to the windows, for the reason that the traffic on this line is not limited to local stock. Bars are also open to objection on safety grounds, in the event of fire or accident to a train. Special warnings to passengers are put up in all the carriages, and I am asking the railway company to consider whether there are any other special precautions which they could take.

Mr. Anderson

Is it not a fact that the stock used for the traffic from Workington to Carlisle is localised? Is it not also a fact that the provision of rods on windows prevails where there are narrow tunnels and narrow bridges on the Manchester-Oldham length where there have been no accidents, whereas there has been a series of accidents, including accidents to schoolchildren, on this length? Will the hon. Gentleman ask the company to consider that provision favourably at an early date?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Yes, Sir. I think what my hon. Friend says about the Manchester line is quite correct and I believe there have been no accidents there. On this line there have been five fatal accidents in the last nine years. However, I think he is wrong in thinking that the stock is all local stock; I believe other stock has to be used as well, but if he has other evidence, I shall be glad to consider it.

Mr. Anderson

Is it not a fact that the stock which has to be used must be of a certain width and height, and that consequently general stock cannot be used?

Mr. Noel-Baker

I think that stock is used on other lines.

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