Applying co-ordination discourse in practice: the London & North Eastern Railway and rail-bus integration, 1923-1939

Eades, Timothy (2021). Applying co-ordination discourse in practice: the London & North Eastern Railway and rail-bus integration, 1923-1939. University of Birmingham. M.A.

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Abstract

The effectiveness of the response of Britain’s railways to the growth of road competition during the interwar period has long been debated by historians. This thesis will examine the matter through a case study of the London & North Eastern Railway’s attempt to co-ordinate its passenger train business with the activities of the territorial bus companies after 1928. This shows railway officials did have a plan to mitigate their financial difficulties, as the replacement of unremunerative rural passenger trains with associated buses was the main objective of the LNER’s investment in the territorial bus firms. Ultimately, however, although the partnership did bring some benefits, the idea of replacing local passenger trains with buses was not achieved. Historians have not previously explained the non-withdrawal of local trains by looking at the dynamics of substituting one mode of transport for another. It was perceived complications with this aspect of the policy on the few occasions where it was done which prevented wider implementation. Amongst the difficulties encountered were practical issues with the substitute buses running to railheads and
perceived low demand for the replacement rail-bus integration arrangements. Nevertheless, the nature of the reaction of railway officials to these problems does support those historians who argue they failed to properly understand the finances of their network, and overly focused on the technical aspects of their business.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.A.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.A.

Supervisor(s):