HC Deb 16 July 1946 vol 425 cc1058-9
Mr. Hector Hughes

(by Private Notice), asked the Minister of Transport whether he has any statement to make with regard to the regrettable disaster which occurred to the King's Cross to Aberdeen express at Hatfield last night?

The Minister of Transport (Mr. Barnes)

Yes, Sir. At 7.30 p.m. last night an express passenger train from King's Cross to Aberdeen became derailed near Hatfield. The railway company's preliminary report is to the effect that the engine and all 13 coaches of the train left the rails. They will submit further information as soon as possible. In the meantime I have appointed an Inspecting Officer of Railways to hold an inquiry into this accident. and his report will be submitted to me in due course. I understand that II passengers were injured and taken to hospital, and I should like to express my sympathy with those concerned.

Mr. Hughes

Can the Minister say anything about the extent of the injuries to the people who were injured?

Mr. Barnes

Not at this stage, Sir.