§ 31. Mr. INSKIPasked the Minister of Transport how many open wagons on an average are requisitioned each week from the railway companies for the purpose of removing salvage from Richborough; and whether there is the same urgency for wagons in this connection as at the ordinary commercial ports?
§ Sir E. GEDDESThe average demand at Richborough for common user wagons over and above those available from inwards traffic is only about 120 per week. The hon. Member will appreciate that the distribution from Richborough of salvaged and returned material from overseas is a, matter of national importance. It is the property of the State.
§ Mr. INSKIPWill the right hon. Gentleman answer the second part of the question as to whether the disposal of this salvage is more important than getting out stocks which are accumulating at our ports?
§ Sir E. GEDDESThe value of the salvage is very great, and if it were left to rot at Richborough I think it would outweigh the advantages of moving goods from the other ports at the present time.