§ Mr. BROMLEYasked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that, whilst many railway engine-drivers and firemen are working long hours on their engines, engine-cleaners who have five and six years of service, and are capable of promotion to firemen, are being dismissed as redundant; and, if so, will he consider the wisdom of advising the railway companies, in the interest of the travelling public, both to reduce the overtime hours of their drivers and firemen and retain in their service engine-cleaners so that engines may be properly prepared for their work?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI am not aware of the circumstances to which the hon. Member refers, and I may say that no specific complaints of excessive hours worked by engine-drivers or firemen have reached me recently. If any such complaints are made they will be fully investigated.