§ 58. Mr. HORE-BELISHAasked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the inconvenience caused to port traders through the detention of ships which cannot be discharged owing to the lack of wagon facilities, it is proposed to give powers to railway companies to compel people to clear railway wagons promptly and not make use of them as stores on the rails?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThe present position is that traders who fail to clear railway wagons within a reasonable period are liable to demurrage or siding rent charges. I do not contemplate further legislation on the subject.
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAHas the right hon. Gentleman looked into the very serious position which recently arose at Plymouth, since I informed him of it?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI am afraid I have not looked specially into the Plymouth case, but I have looked into a large number of cases, and the remedy, it seems to me, is for the railway companies to apply to the Railway Rates Tribunal for re-adjustment of charges.