§ Mr. Silkinasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he is aware of the hardship and loss of time involved in the drastic reduction of transport in London; and whether he will give further consideration to the provision of more transport in London?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerAs I am sure my hon. Friend will appreciate, the drastic reduction of road passenger services is required to save man-power, fuel and rubber. Such reductions are being effected progressively throughout the country, wherever they can be made without hampering travel for essential purposes. At the same time, new and increased facilities by road or rail are constantly being provided for war workers. No service is withdrawn or curtailed until the use made of it by the public has been carefully reviewed. I do not think that undue hardship has hitherto resulted from the measures taken. Some inconvenience is, however, inevitable and I regret that I can hold out no hopes to my hon. Friend that there will be any general increase of travelling facilities in London in the early future. On the contrary, I am afraid that further reductions will probably be required.