HC Deb 20 December 1967 vol 756 c1253
35. Mr. Farr

asked the Minister of Transport what action she proposes to take, by legislation or otherwise, to ensure that adequate public travel facilities are available for those enjoying the traditional festivities of Christmas.

Mr. Carmichael

I would refer the hon. Member to the Answer given to my hon. Friend the Member for Norwich, Nforth (Mr. Wallace) on 29th November. —[Vol. 755, c. 118.]

Mr. Farr

That Answer is not very satisfactory. Is the Minister aware that in many rural areas there will be no public transport facilities whatsoever over the holidays? What is the private motorist to do, who dare not now go out of doors in the evening?

Mr. Carmichael

The level of services must be decided by the local operators in the light of their local knowledge. I do not think that my right hon. Friend can accept that ordinary sensible people will be unable to organise their lives to enjoy Christmas without mixing drinking and driving.