§ 12. Major Lyonsasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether his attention has been called to the unsatisfactory nature of railway station refreshment rooms; what steps he proposes to take to make them adequate in supply and cost to meet the needs of troops and other travellers on necessary business; and whether he will consult with the Ministry of Food with a view to establishing where the accommodation is bad and as an experiment at busy stations, tea-rooms as, or under the control of, British Restaurants?
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport (Mr. Noel-Baker)I have received very few complaints concerning these services in recent months. I would remind my hon. Friend that troops travelling on leave or on duty are given rations for their journeys and that there are canteens for the Forces at about 120 of the busier stations and junctions. I suggest that civilian passengers who intend to make long distance journeys would do well to provide themselves with the food and drink which they may require. I am, however, inquiring whether improvements in the existing services can be made.
§ Major LyonsWhile I thank my hon. Friend for that answer, if his inquiries show, as I think they will, that these rooms are thoroughly unsatisfactory in price, service and materials, will he take the steps I indicate in order to run them better than they can be run by the railway companies?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerI will consider all proposals, including those of my hon. and gallant Friend.