Mrs. Adamson:

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the ordinary and season railway fares on the North Kent lines of the Southern Railway are greater upon mileage than other lines of the same railway, and therefore the recent increase has accentuated the difference; and whether he will have investigations made, with a view to re grading the fares in the North Kent area?

I am informed by the Southern Railway Company that, owing to circumstances which prevailed prior to amalgamation in 1923, the season ticket rates between London and certain stations on their system are on a comparatively low basis and that they cannot see their way to bring other rates down to that level in view of the serious loss of revenue they would sustain. As regards the second part of the question I would refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave on 7th June to the hon. Member for South-West Bethnal Green (Sir P. Harris).

Mrs. Adamson:

Is the Minister aware of the great inconvenience caused to travellers on the North Kent railway by this increase in fares?

Perhaps the hon. Lady will read the answer which I have given.

Is it not time that the railways belonged to the country?

asked the Minister of Transport whether he has any statement to make respecting the deputation which he has received concerning the recent increase in fares in the London area; and whether he indicated to that deputation any action he proposes to take to remove grievances and to protect the travelling public against such increases?

I have promised to send a considered reply to the representations made by the deputation. In the meantime I cannot add to the agreed note of the proceedings.

Will Members of this House have an opportunity of seeing that reply?

They will be able to read my reply to the deputation.

But should it not be made available to hon. Members of the House considering the resentment which is felt in the outlying areas as to the effect of this increase of 5 per cent, in fares?

Surely the best thing would be for the public to read what I am going to say to this deputation, which, I understand, is representative of all the people concerned.

Will not the Minister consider publication subsequently. They may not publish it?

I do not think there is any doubt about their publishing it. If they do not, I will.