§ 34. Mr. Molloyasked the Minister of Transport what research is being carried out by his Department into the effects of the working of single-decker buses in heavily populated suburban areas; and if he will make a statement.
Mr. Bob BrownIt is for the bus undertakings concerned to initiate operational studies of this kind, having regard to local requirements and circumstances. We are anxious to encourage further research on these matters, and the Department is ready to help undertakings in so far as resources permit.
§ Mr. MolloyMany of us representing constituencies in the London area are grateful for the effort being made in the introduction of single-decker buses, but does my hon. Friend appreciate that much of the advantage which was expected to accrue from this experiment has been frustrated because of the large size of these buses? Will he assure us that those concerned will look into the proposal to introduce a smaller and nippier single-decker bus?
Mr. BrownIt is true that the trend in the introduction of one-man operated buses has been towards bigger buses so that they would take almost the load of the double-decker formerly in operation. The question of future design is largely a matter for the industry and the operators.