§ Mr. JAMES THOMASasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the Report of the chief inspecting officer of railways, Colonel Yorke, R.E., on the cause of the railway accident which happened at Ditton Junction, London and North Western Railway, wherein he criticises the present methods adopted by railway companies with regard to engine drivers learning the road; and, having regard to the importance of this question, and, further, the fact that no uniformity exists between 539W railway companies on this question, whether he will consider the advisability of appointing a Royal Commission or Departmental Committee to consider the whole question before any instructions are issued on the matter?
Mr. ROBERTSONThe observations in Colonel Yorke's report, to which my hon. Friend refers, relate specifically to the London and North Western Railway Company only, whose attention has already been called to them. My right hon. Friend will consider when he receives their reply whether further action should be taken in the matter; but, as at present advised, he does not think that the question raised is one for a Royal Commission or a Departmental Committee.