asked the Minister of Transport whether, in the interests of the safety of road users, he proposes to instruct the London Passenger Transport Board and Traffic Commissioners to extend the time schedules of public service vehicles during the hours of darkness, so that speeds may be reduced to the level which is essential under the present lighting restrictions?

The hon. Member may rest assured that the operators of public passenger transport have a full sense of their responsibilities for public safety. The London Passenger Transport Board are not now maintaining normal time schedules at night in their area, but they are not yet in a position to issue new schedules until they have had more experience of conditions during the hours of darkness. As regards other areas, I have no doubt that similar steps are being taken and I am seeking confirmation on the point from the Traffic Commissioners.