§ 38. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Minister of Transport whether he has been able to take any steps to relieve the shortage of railway wagons, felt from time to time in Hull, and particularly inconvenient for the timber trade; and what these steps are?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThe provision of adequate facilities for the conveyance by rail of timber imported at Humber ports 1568 is a matter for which the London and North Eastern Railway Company are responsible. But I have had occasion from time to time to discuss this matter with them. As regards the present position, the company recognised that during last month, when for various reasons they were exceptionally pressed for wagons, there was not a full supply for the timber trade, but I am informed that during recent weeks there has been, in spite of the occurrence of fog, a distinct improvement.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIs the Minister of Transport aware that this difficulty has arisen at intervals for the last five or six years, ever since the amalgamation of the railways, and can he represent the matter to the railway companies, in order that this difficulty may not occur again after trade improves?
§ Colonel ASHLEYI certainly will direct the special attention of the companies to the point raised by the hon. and gallant Gentleman.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODSeeing that we have some connection with the railway companies, will the right hon. Gentleman not make inquiries into what is happening now because they are making one man on the railways do the work of two men?