HC Deb 25 June 1951 vol 489 cc989-90
38. Captain Ryder

asked the Minister of Transport if his attention has been drawn to the dangerous overcrowding outside Morden underground station during rush hours owing to the inadequate facilities for subsequent dispersal by bus; and what steps he is proposing to take to overcome this congestion.

Mr. Barnes

I am not aware that conditions outside Morden underground station during rush hours are dangerous. The limiting factor on the rate of dispersal of passengers at these times is the area available for buses outside the station. Subject to this the London Transport Executive maintain as intense a service as possible.

Captain Ryder

Is the Minister aware that long queues stretch across the highway at this point during the rush hours, that 120 or more buses an hour have to be handled there during the peak period, and that it is only through special measures that accidents are prevented? Apart from the danger, is he aware that great inconvenience is caused to thousands of people returning from work day after day and that it is a very widespread grievance in the neighbourhood?

Mr. Barnes

The comment of the hon. and gallant Gentleman itself emphasises the difficulty of the situation. This is a built-up area and the difficulty is in providing additional space for accommodation. That is why London Transport devotes special attention to the problem during the peak hours.

Mr. McCorquodale

In view of the very widespread complaints from all surrounding areas about this matter, will the Minister personally look into it again?

Mr. Barnes

Certainly, Sir.

Captain Ryder

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Merton and Morden Urban District Council have submitted plans for the enlargement of the area but are unable to get any redress of the grievance by this means?

Mr. Barnes

It is sometimes very difficult nowadays to carry out improvements like this because of difficulties and restrictions in other directions, but this is an exceptionally difficult point.

Captain Ryder

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment.