asked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been called to the inconvenience which is caused by the level crossing of the London, Midland and Scottish Railway at Kirkby-in-Ashfield, and to the fact that on a recent occasion a fire having broken out at Kirkby the local fire brigade was held up for 10 minutes at the level-crossing gates, whereby danger was caused to life and property; and whether he proposes to take action, by the introduction of legislation or otherwise, to abolish these level crossings?

My attention has been called to the incon- venience to the local fire brigade at this level crossing on a recent occasion, and I am in communication with the railway company in regard thereto. I do not think there is any immediate need for legislation, and I am prepared to consider applications for financial assistance towards well-considered schemes for the erection of bridges at level crossings.