§ 79. Major LANE-FOXasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions for what purpose the Barnbow shell-filling factory is now being used; whether he is aware that a large number 1159 of new railway locomotives and new box railway wagons are standing in the sidings with no protection from the weather; what is intended to be the destination of these locomotives and wagons; and whether, in view of the shortage in the country, some use can be made of them now?
Mr. HOPEThe Barnbow shell-filling factory is now being used for storing surplus Government property of various kinds. Railway locomotives and wagons are stored there pending disposal, in order to clear the contractors' works. They are at present stored in the open as covered storage is not available, but precautions have been taken to prevent their deterioration. Arrangements arc being made for pooling surplus locomotives and wagons for use by British railway companies. As soon as the details have been settled with the Railway Executive Committee the locomotives and wagons will be distributed among the different companies.