§ Mr. Gammansasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies why 20 new locomotives for the Nigerian railways which are too heavy for most of the track, were ordered from this country; what percentage of the main line track cannot at present take them; what is the estimated cost of laying new track for them; and when the work is likely to be completed.
Mr. Creech JonesThe 20 engines ordered are not too heavy for most of the track, and are being used to full capacity. Lighter engines are used on the 13 per cent. of the track where the new engines do not run. The cost of laying new track is not known in my Department without further inquiry; much of the track has already been re-laid in the ordinary course of overhaul and the remainder is being dealt with steadily as materials are delivered.