§ Mr. Carsonasked the Minister of War Transport if he is aware that seven compartments on the 9.30 a.m. train from King's Cross to Glasgow on 9th November were reserved for members of the London Orchestra; that only half were occupied; and whether he is now in a position to extend reservations of seats on trains to Members of Parliament travelling to and from their constituencies.
§ Mr. BarnesThe railways are authorised to reserve accommodation for theatrical parties numerous enough to fill at least one compartment, on condition that the labels are removed when they have taken their seats so that any unoccupied seats may be taken by other passengers. The reservations to which the hon. Member refers was made in accordance with this authorisation. There were 90 first class and 304 third class seats on the train but there were only 49 first and 295 third class passengers. As regards reservations of seats for Members of Parliament, I would refer the hon. Member to my answer to a Question by the hon. Member for West Leeds (Mr. Stamford) on 29th October.