§ 69. Mr. Ralph Ethertonasked the Secretary of State for War what arrangements have now been made for the comfort of troops using the London Midland and Scottish Railway Company's London Road station at Manchester, particularly in regard to a canteen in the station itself, near the platforms; and how many notice spaces and of what size have now been made available at London Road station to indicate the whereabouts of the various voluntary canteens and hostels in the town for troops?
§ The Financial Secretary to the War Office (Mr. Richard Law)There is a Young Men's Christian Association canteen at the end of the station approach. There is also a rest room in the station, and steps are being taken to have it furnished with collapsible beds and comfortable chairs. In addition, cloakroom, washing and lavatory accommodation is available, free of charge. Two rooms belonging to the London and North Eastern Railway, which are adjacent to the station main entrance, are about to be adapted to canteen purposes. As regards the last part of the Question, I am informed that notices have been put up to indicate the whereabouts of the various canteens, etc., in the town, but I have no details as to the number or size.
§ Mr. EthertonIn regard to the notices, is not the Minister aware that, as recently as last week, there was only one notice at this railway station and it was of very small size, directing attention to canteens in Manchester, whereas there was an enormous number of advertisements of the London Midland and Scottish Railway directing attention to various resorts and asking people to go to various holiday places?
§ Mr. Glenvil HallWill the Minister consider whether more canteens cannot be provided at the stations, because the facilities are pretty bad?
§ Mr. LawIf the hon. Member will read the reply I gave, I think he will see that more canteen facilities are being provided.