§ 67. Mr. Rentonasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that, on Saturday, 26th April, 1952, a railway engine crashed through the gates at the level crossing near Needingworth, Huntingdonshire; what injuries resulted; what was the cost of the damage done; what was the cause of accident; and whether he will make a statement.
Mr. BraithwaiteMy right hon. Friend has received from the British Transport Commission the usual statutory report of this accident, in which the engine of a freight train broke through the gates at night. There were no personal injuries, and the cost of the damage is estimated by the British Transport Commission at about £130. The distant signal was at caution, but the driver failed to observe it and he was unable to stop when he saw the red light on the gates. Responsibility also rested with the crossing keeper, who was slow in clearing the line for the train although he was warned of its approach.