HC Deb 18 October 1944 vol 403 cc2379-80
73. Mr. Rhys Davies

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport why, in view of the fact that the amount of extra coal consumed would be infinitesimal, long distance passenger trains are not heated, not even those travelling in the colder parts of the country.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Long distance night trains and troop trains have been heated since 25th September. Other trains will be heated as from Monday next.

Mr. Rhys Davies

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that it takes only 3 lbs. extra of coal to heat a passenger train running one mile; and will he call a halt in the punitive propensities of his Department against the travelling public?

Mr. Noel-Baker

It is not that. We have to try to help the Minister of Fuel and Power as much as we can.