7. Mr. TREVELYAN THOMSONasked whether, in view of the continued congestion of traffic in the North-East Coast area, he is now prepared to press the railway companies concerned to establish a three-shift system of working goods and mineral traffic, so as to relieve the present position.
8. Captain TERRELLasked whether, in view of the successful introduction by the steelworkers of the system of three shifts of eight hours each, he will consider the application of this method of working to the railways in those districts where congestion still exists.
§ Sir E. GEDDESAs I stated in answer to the hon. Member for Pontefract on the 23rd of February, the railway companies generally, as a means of meeting the situation caused by the introduction of a shorter working day, are increasing shifts wherever this is practicable and the traffic warrants it. Train working is at present continuous on important main and branch lines, and this is extended to all lines on which it is proved to be necessary.
Captain TERRELLCould the right hon. Gentleman not employ some of the 250,000 unemployed ex-Service men?
§ Sir E. GEDDESAdditional men are being put on to the railways as fast as possible.