HC Deb 10 November 1919 vol 121 cc13-4
42. Mr. HOHLER

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether the damaged lorries landed at Richborough are towed from that place to Slough or to what other place; what is the distance and what is the average cost of towing a damaged lorry between those places, including the return journey of the towing lorry; and will he give the number of damaged lorries so towed from the 1st of August to the 1st of November last?

Mr. KELLAWAY

Damaged lorries landed at Richborough are towed to Slough, a distance of 120 miles. It is estimated that the average inclusive cost of towing between these two places is £15 per vehicle. During the period between 1st August and 1st November the number of lorries so dealt with was 3,200.

Mr. HOHLER

Is it a reasonable and businesslike proceeding to tow these lorries 120 miles and make no preparation for their repair on the spot?

Mr. KELLAWAY

The towing was an emergency measure. There are no facilities at Richborough for repairing anything like this number of lorries.

Mr. HOHLER

Is my hon. Friend aware that there are no end of buildings at Richborough, and that all that is required is machinery, and how long is this towing going on?

Mr. KELLAWAY

Yes; all that is required is machinery, and it is an exceedingly difficult business getting machinery.

Mr. HOGGE

Can my hon. Friend say what is the difference between taking them by road?

Mr. KELLAWAY

The answer is that they are being taken by road.

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