HC Deb 13 November 1918 vol 110 cc2674-5
41. Mr. FIELD

asked if arrangements have been made enabling a more punctual delivery of Irish mails in London, and obviating the inconvenience to passengers arising from two hours' delay at Holyhead, causing arrival in Euston when tube trains and taxi-cabs are not available?

Mr. ILLINGWORTH

So far as the postal service is concerned, no inconvenience arises from the present hour of arrival at Euston of the up night mail train from Holyhead. So far as passengers are concerned, I have been repeatedly assured that with the present time of departure of the boat from Kingstown a convenient time of arrival at Euston is not attainable, though in pursuance of a promise made to a deputation I am making further inquiry on this point.

In view of the suspension of hostilities. I am now also inquiring what is the earliest date at which a return can be made to the timing of the trains and boats which existed before daylight sailings were adopted.

Mr. LOUGH

Was there not an understanding that this matter should be arranged by the first of this month, and can the right hon. Gentleman say why that understanding was not carried out?

Mr. ILLINGWORTH

I am not aware of anything of the sort.

Mr. DILLON

Can the right hon. Gentleman not state what is the reason for the delay of three hours at Holyhead before the mail train leaves after the boat arrives, and whether it has not been brought to his notice that although it may not inconvenience the Post Office, it is a terrible inconvenience to travellers from Ireland?

Mr. ILLINGWORTH

I am afraid it would take too long by way of answer to a question, but I explained the matter to a deputation the other day, and if the hon. Member wishes I will send him a written statement.

Mr. DILLON

Thank you!