§ 18. Mr. Sloanasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the London Midland and Scottish Railway Company have issued instructions to their staff that towels are to be placed only in first-class lavatories of troop trains; and whether he will take steps to have this discrimination removed?
§ The Minister of Transport (Sir John Reith)The company inform me that there is a general and serious shortage of 761 towels, and that stocks available do not allow of supply in third-class lavatories on troop trains, and only in limited numbers when available in first-class.
§ Mr. George GriffithsWill the railway companies be able to put towels in third-class lavatories when they have this rise in fares again?
§ Mr. SloanCan the right hon. Gentleman say when the railway companies will be able to overcome the difficulties and supply troops with towels in the lavatories?
§ Sir J. ReithNo, Sir; I am sorry I cannot. I have no idea.