§ 4. Mr. Peter Robertsasked the Minister of Transport whether he will inquire of the British Transport Commission the number of wagons practically available for moving coal from the pitheads of the National Coal Board; and what is their estimate of the number required to do this effectively without delay to pit production.
§ Mr. MaclayThe British Transport Commission tell me that approximately 535,000 wagons, of varying capacity, are immediately available for movement of mineral traffic, excluding iron ore. An average of 315,000 wagons per week are forwarded for coal class traffic, which includes coke. The Commission consider that the railway wagon fleet should suffice to avoid delay in pit production, provided there is enough staff and weather conditions are not unduly severe.
§ Mr. RobertsDoes that mean they are satisfied that they will be able to provide the staff and the amenities to keep the pits going?
§ Mr. MaclayStaff is really another question. To save the time of the House, perhaps my hon. Friend will put down a separate Question on that.
§ Mr. A. C. ManuelWould the Minister inform the House as to the siding accommodation available at the various collieries for the storage of wagons so that they will be accessible for coal?
§ Mr. MaclayI should like to see that Question on the Order Paper.