HC Deb 27 November 1919 vol 121 c1943W
Mr. W. THORNE

asked the Minister of Transport if he is aware of the difficulties of transport in South Wales and Monmouthshire; that, in consequence of the present congested state of the railways, it is playing havoc with the Welsh plate and sheet trade; that the manufacturers connected with the trade are holding a conference at the Royal Metal Exchange, Swansea, on Monday, 1st December; and whether his Department intends to be represented at the conference in question with a view of hearing the employers' side of the question?

Sir R. WILLIAMS

I am aware that there is a general shortage of wagons, but I have: no reason to believe that the Welsh plate and sheet trade is suffering undue disadvantage in comparison with other trades. This trade has the benefit of coastwise facilities, and it is suggested that the utmost use should be made of this means of transport. Representatives from the railway companies concerned have been invited to attend the meeting on the 1st of December, and it is not proposed to send a representative of the Ministry of Transport.

Mr. A. T. DAVIES

asked the Minister of Transport whether upwards of 40,000 railway wagons and trucks are still in France; whether the Port of London is greatly congested with goods, owing in part to a shortage of rolling stock and barges; whether the motor lorry aid to the railway companies has so far failed appreciably to relieve the congestion; whether on 21st November fifteen ships were in the Thames unable to berth; whether this grave congestion appreciably affects the prices of commodities; and what is being done to meet the emergency?

Sir R. WILLIAMS

The number of wagons to be returned to this country from France was, in the middle of this month, approximately 24,000, of which over 19,000 were those lent by the British railway companies. The Port of London is certainly congested, but the traffic emergency lorry scheme was instituted to meet the emergency and has affected an improvement. I am unable to make any statement as to the effect of the congestion on prices of commodities.