§ Mr. SPEAKERCaptain Wedgwood Benn.
§ Colonel Sir J. REMNANTI have a question—No. 63.
§ Mr. SPEAKERI called on the hon. and gallant Gentleman.
§ Sir J. REMNANTI did not hear you, Sir.
§ Mr. SPEAKERI called on the hon. and gallant Gentleman, but he was engaged in conversation, and he did not rise.
§ Sir J. REMNANTI never heard it. The last thing I heard was the hon. Member (Mr. Locker-Lampson) saying he would raise his question in the autumn.
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. and gallant Gentleman should keep his eye on the Paper. Would he like to ask his question now?
§ 63. Sir J. REMNANTasked the Secretary of State for War if instructions can now be given to transfer the work of the railway transport officers, at present attached to the railways in this country, to the permanent officials of the railway companies, and so save money for the Exchequer?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. Churchill)Reductions in the railway transport staff in this country have been, and are being effected, but it is not possible at present to dispense entirely with these officers. Military traffic is still very heavy, and many of the duties which are carried out by railway transport officers could not be undertaken by railway officials.
§ Sir J. REMNANTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that a great many transport officers attached to the London termini are so busy that they are able to spend three days and three nights at home?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI did not know that, and I should be very glad to have any facts at my hon. and gallant Friend's disposal.