10. Mr. CHANCELLORasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the shortage of coal in Ireland is at present acute; that there has been reduction of the ordinary train services; that, as a result, the travelling and business public are inconvenienced and the interests of Irish seaside and holiday resorts injuriously affected; and that no less than six auxiliary trains, formerly known as specials, were advertised by the Great Southern and Western Railway Company to run for the Curragh races on 25th, 26th, and 27th June, making for both journeys thirty-six special trains altogether; whether these trains were run as advertised; and, if so, whether, in the public interests, he will take steps to secure that such provision for the railway accommodation of race-goers shall not be provided in future, in order that the general public of Ireland may have their fair share of railway travelling facilities?
Sir A. STANLEYThere is undoubtedly a shortage in the supply of coal to Ireland, and economy in its use is therefore necessary. The railway companies have in consequence been called upon to reduce the passenger services, and this reduction must, I am afraid, cause some inconvenience to the public. I am in communication with the Irish Railway Executive Committee as regards the running of trains for the purposes of the race meeting to which the hon. Member refers.
Sir A. STANLEYIt is not possible. The conditions in Ireland are so totally different that it would be impossible to apply the same system in Ireland as in Great Britain, but the amount of coal imported into Ireland is reduced, so that the results are practically the same.
Major NEWMANIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that, owing to the fact that coal is not rationed in Ireland, it is almost impossible for people who ought to have coal to get it, and there is consequently a general scramble for it?
Mr. CHANCELLORWere not these thirty-six trains advertised, and therefore there is a grievance with the civilian population?