§ 78. Mr. Awberyasked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that the number of wagons loaded with coal on the sidings of South Wales increased by over 50 per cent. in the three days 17th to 19th February and if he is satisfied that the instructions given for the priority movement of coal are being put into full effect.
§ Mr. BarnesThe 17th February was a Monday when wagon numbers are low after the week-end clearance, and a rise by the Wednesday is only to be expected. The Wednesday figure was in any case well below the winter average. I am satisfied that the instructions given for priority movement of coal are being put into full effect.
§ 79. Mr. Awberyasked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that over 2,000 empty coal wagons are standing in the Birmingham area waiting to be dispatched to the collieries; and if he will arrange for these to be sent immediately for reloading in order to prevent a stoppage of work at any pit for want of empty wagons.
§ Mr. BarnesThe railways have succeeded in supplying all the empty wagons needed by the collieries. Wagons standing will be drawn upon as needed.
§ 92. Mr. Sparksasked the Minister of Transport what steps he will take to see that the railway companies are made aware, in advance, of the anticipated destination and estimated tonnage of coal to be moved from colliery pitheads and sidings on Sundays, so that proper staff arrangements may be made by the railway companies concerned.
§ Mr. BarnesThe railway companies and the National Coal Board maintain close 11W contact to ensure that the railways are informed as to the collieries from which wagons will be required to be cleared on Sundays, the expected output and the directional flow of the traffic.