§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked whether, in view of the fact that trade in India is being greatly hampered by lack of rolling 1900W stock, and that no additions can be made by the railway companies before the end of 1913, the Government will, under these circumstances, give immediate permission to those merchants who are willing to do so to supply their own wagons for use on the Indian railways?
§ Mr. HAROLD BAKERIt is not the case that no additions to rolling stock can be made before the end of 1913? A considerable amount is now under supply, to be sent out before the end of 1912–13, and further large amounts will be bought in 1913–14 The Secretary of State believes that there are considerable disadvantages, as pointed out in paragraph 11 of the Report of the Committee on Indian Railway Finance and Administration, in allowing private wagons to be used on railways. The Government of India share this view, and it is not proposed to introduce this system in India.