§ Sir K. WOODasked the Minister of Transport whether he has now made inquiries concerning the condition of the rolling stock and the overcrowding on the Southern Railway between Woolwich and London; and whether any action is being taken in the matter?
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§ Mr. SNELLasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that numerous complaints have been received by the Woolwich Metropolitan Borough Council concerning the dirty condition of the rolling stock and the persistent overcrowding on the Southern Railway Company between Woolwich and London, and that the representations of the borough council in this matter have been without effect; and whether he will make inquiries with a view to suitable action being taken by his Department?
§ Mr. H. GOSLINGThe railway company inform me that the matters to which the hon. Members refer have been278W receiving their attention, with a view to obviating, as far as possible, the difficulties complained of, but that, in consequence of the heavy nature of the suburban traffic in the district, they are not able at the present time to accomplish all they desire in this direction. The company further point out that the electrification of the lines in this neighbourhood is being undertaken largely in consequence of the existing difficulties in dealing satisfactorily with the traffic, and they assure me that, pending the conclusion of the electrification, everything possible will be done as regards both the condition of the rolling stock and overcrowding.