§ 20. Mr. SHORTasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that a number of laden barges have boon lying idle for two months or thereabouts in the Regent's Canal Dock, Stepney; and, if so, whether he will take steps to facilitate the release of such barges for trading purposes.
Sir R. WILLIAMSI am informed that seven or eight sailing barges have been lying in the Regent's Canal Dock, Stepney, for a considerable time, laden with wine and other merchandise discharged from steamers, for which the traders have no storage accommodation. These barges are privately owned, but representations 12 have been made with a view to securing their more efficient use. The Ministry of Transport has no powers to do more.