40. Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Minister of Transport how many football special trains were run by British Railways in the latest annual period for which figures are available; how many of these trains suffered from vandalism; and what was the cost of the damage.
§ Mr. MarshThe Railways Board tell me that during the 12-month period to 30th June, 1968, 19 of the 866 football specials they ran were damaged by vandals. Repairs cost £1,648 in all. The cost of delays to passengers and the time rolling stock was out of action for repairs are not quantifiable.
Mr. TaylorAre these not alarming figures? Does the Minister know that in a recent case vandals responsible for £800 worth of damage were fined only £5 each? Is he aware that the Government would have the general support of the public if they provided for more effective penalties to deal with recent orgies of vandalism?
§ Mr. MarshThe question of penalties and the penalties awarded is not a matter for me; it is for the courts. I think this is a regrettable trend, though it should be borne in mind that these figures show that just over 2 per cent. of the special football trains were damaged. The important thing is that this is a matter of management for the Railways Board, and it prefers to run special trains rather than risk this sort of hooliganism and vandalism on ordinary services.
§ Mr. Ron LewisCan the Minister say whether those figures include damage done to ordinary trains on which football fans have travelled?
§ Sir Knox CunninghamIs not that rather a high number of goals scored by the Vandals? Might it not be possible to try some form of additional deposit on tickets for football specials?
§ Mr. MarshThis is a matter for the management of British Railways, but I have no doubt that it will take note of what the hon. and learned Gentleman says.