§ 106. Mr. W. THORNEasked the Minister of Transport if he is aware of the shortage of coal in the borough of West Ham; that there is only one week's supply in the borough; that the supplies coming forward are not sufficient to meet the need of the borough; and that unless steps are immediately taken to send forward coal over the Great Eastern Railway to the various depots in the district, the shortage at Christmas will he very acute; can he see his way to advise that the coal should be sent forward from the London and North Western Railway depot at Canning Town to supply the southern portion of the borough; and is he aware that the town council have taken steps to hire motor lorries to take the coal round the streets for sale, and that a number of families in the borough of West Ham have been without coal in consequence of the shortage; can he state whether he has received a letter from the Mayor of West Ham, dated 11th December, about the matter; and does he intend taking any action in the matter?
§ Mr. NEALThis matter was discussed with a deputation, which included the Mayor of West Ham, on the 15th December, and the Railway Company concerned is taking every possible step to accept all coal which may be offered during the next few days.