HC Deb 20 March 1957 vol 567 cc378-9
38. Mr. Vane

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he is satisfied that the rule limiting the number of standing passengers in London Transport omnibuses is not causing unnecessary hardship to the travelling public at a time when the services on many routes is less frequent; and if he will amend his Regulations so as to increase the maximum permitted number.

Mr. Watkinson

The Regulations already permit a greater number of standing passengers than are in fact carried under an agreement between London Transport and the Transport and General Workers' Union. Services have not been reduced during peak periods and buses are running better because of easier traffic conditions.

Mr. Vane

Is my right hon. Friend aware that that is not an answer to my Question? I asked whether, during the present petrol shortage and reduction in the number of services, my right hon. Friend would look into this matter again?

Mr. Watkinson

I am not quite sure into what my hon. Friend wants me to look. If he means, are we trying to take steps to ensure that the regularity of bus services continues, the answer is "Yes, very much."

Mr. Ernest Davies

Is not this a matter for consultation between the unions and the London Transport Executive? The Minister does not come into the matter. Agreement must be reached between the unions and the London Transport Executive before any change can take place.

Mr. Watkinson

I am not seeking to vary the number of passengers.

Mr. Vane

Is not this a case of the Minister looking after the interests of the travelling public as well as of bearing other considerations in mind?

Mr. Watkinson

Of course it is my duty to look after the interests of the travelling public, but what I have already said is that it does not appear to be necessary to increase the number of standing passengers, because the buses are already coping with the load quite adequately.