HC Deb 04 August 1947 vol 441 cc117-8W
87. Mr. Teeling

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the regulations allowing reduced fares and reserved accommodation only applies to Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays during the summer, which particularly hits the working boys' clubs of Brighton and elsewhere who go camping and can only start their holidays during the week-end, as distinct from those still at school who can leave any day of the week; and whether he will consider making special concessions for working boys and girls.

Mr. Barnes

I regret that the restoration of these weekend cheap fare facilities is not possible at present because the depleted railway resources are insufficient to handle the traffic that would result.

90. Mr. Skinnard

asked the Minister of Transport, whether in view of the raising of the school-leaving age with the consequent loss of earning power to children between the ages of 14 and 15 years, steps will now be taken to extend to them cheap travel facilities, now available only to children up to the age of 14 years.

Mr. Barnes

After a careful review of the situation I have come to the conclusion that, in existing circumstances, I should not be justified in asking the transport authorities to extend the age up to which travel is allowed generally at half-fares.