§ 13. Mr. Russellasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware of the shortage of bus crews at the Alperton garage of London Transport in North-West London; and what steps he is taking to assist in finding the additional staff required.
§ Mr. WatkinsonThe shortage of bus crews at Alperton garage is part of the general shortage of staff for London Transport. My Department is in close touch with the London Transport Executive on their staff requirements, details of which have been circulated to all local offices in the London and South-Eastern Region. Special inquiries have also been made in other areas of the country, where there seemed some likelihood of suitable labour being available, and arrangements have been made to recruit workers from Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. RussellIs the Minister aware that this shortage is causing very erratic and irregular bus services in Wembley and in North-West London generally? Can he take steps to improve the situation?
§ Mr. WatkinsonI am aware of that situation. We have hopes of recruiting further workers from Northern Ireland.