Sir F. HALL:

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport whether the railway companies are considering the granting of facilities to enable poor schoolchildren to go to the seaside for one day's excursion during the coming summer; and, if so, whether the fares will be made sufficiently reasonable as to be within the reach of the really poor children?

It is understood that the railway companies propose to grant reduced fares this year in connection with the annual outings of organised parties of juveniles on a similar basis to that obtaining last year.

Sir F. HALL:

Can there not be a further reduction on the rates obtaining last year? Will the hon. Gentleman get into touch with the railway companies and see if they cannot make a further reduction?

I understand they have reconsidered the matter, and think not.