HC Deb 20 November 1946 vol 430 cc137-8W
Mr. Symonds

asked the Minister of Transport if he will inquire into the practice of the L.N.E.R., on the service between Cambridge and Liverpool Street, of running fast trains shortly after slow trains, with the result that the fast trains regularly arrive late; and if he will take steps to improve the service both to and from Liverpool Street.

Mr. Barnes

It is normal railway practice, on sections of line where both express and ordinary trains run, to operate stopping trains in advance of fast trains. The stopping trains thus act as feeder services to the fast trains and provide better facilities for passengers from intermediate stations at which the fast trains do not call. The delays on the Cambridge line are due to the poor condition of locomotives, the maintenance and renewal of which suffered during the war, and not to faulty planning of the timetable. The railway company appreciates that the service is unsatisfactory and assure me that they are doing all they can to improve it.

Mr. Symonds

asked the Minister of Transport on how many days since 7th October, the 7.47 a.m. train from Cambridge to Liverpool Street and the 5.49 p.m. train from Liverpool Street to Cambridge have arrived on time.

Mr. Barnes

I am informed that during the period 7th October to 30th October, the 7.47 a.m. train from Cambridge to London arrived on time on four days. The 5.49 p.m. train from Liverpool Street to Cambridge was late every day.

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