Brass pillars for female tube passengers at Manor House

I've not come across this 'innovation' before. Placed as they are at the bottom of the escalator, I can only assume that they were intended to offer support to dismounting women wearing high heels. (Daily Herald. 7 September, 1932).

Here is a better version of this photo protected by Getty's copyright dogs of war. It seems to clearly suggest that men should exit through the sides of the post whilst women use the gap between them. The description for this image says "The posts were erected to avoided a crush during rush hours." (Getty's descriptions on historical photos are not always accurate. It's not the same as the description used n the contemporary news clipping. I'd go with the latter).