HC Deb 04 February 1941 vol 368 c780
9. Mr. Mander

asked the Secretary of State for War when the arrangements for the canteens at the Great Western and London, Midland and Scottish Railway stations at Wolverhampton, which were promised months ago, will be put into operation; whether he is aware that women helpers have been waiting for a considerable period to staff the canteens, and that there is a great demand for these canteens from men in the services passing through the stations; and what is causing the delay?

Captain Margesson

The delay in establishing these canteens is due to the prior claims on hutting arising from the necessity of providing troops under canvas with other accommodation. A hut, has, however, been erected at the Great Western Railway station, and the canteen is now open and in operation. Another [...]ut has been made available for the London, Midland and Scottish Railway station, and the canteen will be finished and open by the end of this week.

Mr. Mander

Is the right hon. and gallant Friend aware that nothing whatever has been done yet at the London, Midland and Scottish station to erect a hut? Is he not misinformed?

Captain Margesson

I hope very much that I have not been misinformed. My information is that this hut has been made available, and that the canteen will be finished and opened by the end of this week.

Mr. Mander

Will my right hon. and gallant Friend be good enough to look into the matter again? I assure him that there is no sign whatever of any canteen at the station.

Captain Margesson

I certainly will look into it again.