asked the Minister of Transport whether he will consider with the Railway Executive Committee the need for the lengthening of main-line plat forms so as to save the time now wasted by the necessity for two stops at most stations?

Double stops, due to insufficient length of platforms, are not required at the more important stations. In existing circumstances, I do not think the expenditure of time and material involved to meet what is, after all, a temporary need, would be justified.

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that this double stopping is taking place on many of the main lines, and that it causes great waste of time and fuel?

If the Minister does give consideration to this matter, will he bear in mind the enormous strain under which railway staffs are working at the present time?