§ 38. Mr. GRATTAN DOYLEasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that there are on the North-Eastern Railway system thousands of wagons shunted in sidings and remaining unused through need of repairs; and whether, in view of the complaints of traders, any steps can be taken to expedite the release of joiners and wagon wrights in order that many of these wagons may be available for service?
§ Mr. WARDLEI have been asked to reply to this question. I am aware that there are considerable arrears in the repairing of wagons generally, although the circumstances stated in the question in respect of the North Eastern Railway in particular had not previously been brought to my notice.
The Ministry of Labour applied for the release as pivotal men of about 400 employés of private wagon-repairing firms, the majority of whom have already been released. There can only be very few employés of private wagon-repairing firms remaining in the forces who are eligible for demobilisation. Steps are being taken to obtain particulars of such men and their release will be expedited as much as possible. The question of expediting the release of railway workshop staff is also receiving consideration.
§ Mr. HAYDAYCan the hon. Gentleman say if certain railway companies are declining to employ skilled wagon builders and wheelwrights because they are over forty years of age?
§ Mr. WARDLEI should like notice of that question.