§ 72. Captain GARRO-JONESasked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been drawn to the congestion of coal wharves and sidings at the London stations; and whether he intends to utilise any of his powers to take steps to secure the provision of better facilities?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI am aware that there has been delay to coal traffic consigned to certain London depots, and I am in communication with the railway company principally affected. I have no compulsory power to require the provision of facilities.
§ Captain GARRO-JONESDoes the right hon. Gentleman recollect the correspondence in which he informed me that he had taken over certain powers of the Board of Trade which would give him the necessary authority to act compulsorily?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI have no compulsory powers. I can, if I certify that there are not reasonable facilities, put it to the Attorney-General for his consideration, and if he considers that a case is made out, he can order a prosecution, but I have no power.
§ Captain GARRO-JONESIn view of the great delay and loss inflicted on the commercial community and the suffering of the poor people in the East End of London who cannot get coal—
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. and gallant Member should not make speeches now.