§ 36. Mr. Lagdenasked the Minister of Transport if he will allow the cheap rate on public transport for children up to the age of 15 years to replace the age limit of 14 years, which was intended to apply when the school-leaving age was 14 years.
§ Mr. GalbraithThe granting of fares concessions is a matter for the commercial judgment of the operator, subject where necessary to the approval of the appropriate controlling authority. The official school-leaving age is not the decisive factor in granting cheap travel to children. Almost all operators already allow cheap travel to and from school up to the age of 15 years.
§ Mr. LagdenDoes my hon. Friend agree that the cheap rate, if it is desirable for children between 13 and 14 years of age, is equally desirable for children between 14 and 15 years of age, when they are still the same schoolchildren? If he has no power in the matter, will my hon. Friend give an assurance that he will make recommendations to those who have in order to get things changed.
§ Mr. GalbraithMy information is that most operators do what my hon. Friend asks. I should like to consider, in the light of any information which he can give to me, the proposition which he suggests should be put to my right hon. Friend.