HC Deb 02 July 1941 vol 372 cc1342-3
39. Captain Cunningham-Reid

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether, in order to supply the needs of the thousands of troops travelling; at the present time, there are now provided on all long-distance trains alternative refreshments to the standard 2s. 9d. lunch which is beyond the means of the average member of the Forces?

Colonel Llewellin

Army and Air Force personnel travelling on duty or going on leave carry their own rations for the journey. On certain long-distance trains there are buffet cars in which refreshments are provided by voluntary organisations and N.A.A.F.I. at low prices exclusively for members of the Services. Voluntary organisations also run canteens for the Services at some 130 main line stations. Railway refreshment buffets and platform trolleys are, of course, also available.

Captain Cunningham-Reid

Does the right hon. and gallant Gentleman appreciate that many of these trains are so long that men in the Services who are either at the rear or in the front often do not have sufficient time at stations to get to the canteens, nor is it possible at times for them to get along the corridors, for these are often congested with soldiers who are unable to obtain seats?

Colonel Llewellin

I think any soldier who really wanted a meal could get from one end of the train to the other.

Mr. Lawson

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that civilians travelling on trains envy the soldiers the facilities provided for them?

Colonel Llewellin

I can quite believe that.