8. Lieut-Colonel Geoffrey Clifton-Brownasked the Minister of Transport what has been the extent of damage by fire to agricultural crops this summer caused by railway engines; and to what extent it is estimated to be due to the discontinuance of preventive attachments being fitted to the engines.
§ Mr. BarnesThe total number of reported lineside fires affecting agricultural land, alleged to have been caused by railway engines this, year so far, is roughly 4,000. It is not established however, that spark ignition was the cause in all 985 such cases. I am unable at the moment to state the extent of the damage caused to agricultural crops, but I am making inquiries and will communicate with the hon. Member. There has been no discontinuance of preventive attachments to engines.
Lieut.-Colonel Clifton-BrownCan the Minister say why this year the damage has been so much greater than in any other year?
§ Mr. BarnesApparently everybody is aware of the reason except the hon. and gallant Member.
§ Mr. William ShepherdCan the right hon. Gentleman say what causes the fires, apart from spark ignition, in the case of railway engines?
§ Mr. BarnesI am not able to get the proportions of fires due to particular causes.