Q. Since the Routemaster bus was withdrawn I have had
to travel to work in one of the new mobile prisons. I work in Hanover Square, off Oxford Street, which means I am often trapped inside the bus as it sits in gridlocked traffic only a hundred yards or so from the stop where I would normally get out. But, even if the bus is stationary and at the kerbside, the driver will not open the doors until we are at the stop. Some mornings this wastes several minutes. I feel not just frustrated but also humiliated at being trapped like this, often by someone who does not seem to speak English. This is not a good way to start the working day. What do you suggest, Mary? I cannot walk the whole way to work as usually I have heavy bags to carry.
C.P., London W12 A. Once again bogus compensation seekers — who would contrive to have minor accidents when stepping off the Routemasters into traffic — have blighted the quality of life for the rest of us. There is, however, a little noticed emergency exit at the back of the bus. Provided you are polite to those sitting next to it and ensure you shut the door carefully after you have stepped down into the traffic, I see no reason why you should not make use of this facility. I understand it is not illegal to do so — at your own risk.
If you have a problem, write to Dear Mary, c/o The Spectator, 56 Doughty Street, London WC1N 2LL.
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