§ 28. Colonel Clarkeasked the Minister of Transport how many children have been electrocuted on the railways in Kent, Surrey and Sussex during the last five years.
§ Mr. Barnes13, 6, 18, 7 and 5, respectively, for the years 1943 to 1947. No fatalities to children have been reported during the first half of 1948.
§ Colonel ClarkeDoes not the right hon. Gentleman find these figures rather disturbing? Is it possible to put up some sort of fencing along these electrified tracks through which children cannot creep, and thus prevent them from getting on to the track?
§ Mr. BarnesThe figures are very disturbing, but I am gratified to notice that there is a steady decline. The problem of fencing miles of electrified track is very difficult. It is also very difficult to prevent youngsters from climbing the fences.
§ Mr. J. Langford-HoltIs compensation payable in these cases and, if so, by whom?
§ Mr. BarnesI could not say without notice.