§ 40. Mr. Boyd-Carpenterasked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the additional pressure of traffic during the Festival of Britain, he will modify his Regulations which restrict standing in omnibuses.
§ Mr. BarnesThe present order, which is permissive and not mandatory, allows eight standing passengers. Since August, 1949, the number in London has been restricted to five by the London Transport Executive in agreement with the Transport and General Workers' Union, in view, mainly, of the increased delivery of new vehicles. There is no indication as yet that the present bus services are inadequate to convey the additional traffic arising from the Festival of Britain.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the very long queues which are left every evening at bus stops, particularly in central London? If he is 30 not aware of this fact, will he become informed of it and take some action?
§ Mr. BarnesIf that is the case, yes, Sir.