§ Mr. GWYNNEasked the Minister of Transport whether his attention has been called to the congestion of traffic at Deptford Wharf, the result of which is that no wheat has been obtainable in East Sussex for milling purposes and one of the mills in the district has had to close down; whether he will ensure that wheat for food supplies is given preferential treatment; and what steps he is taking to relieve the congestion at the wharves?
§ Mr. NEALA very heavy traffic in sugar, foodstuffs, etc., is being dealt with at Deptford Wharf. I understand that 2419W the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway Company received a request from the Horsebridge Mills (to which it is understood the hon. Member refers) that a barge which arrived on the 17th instant should be given special attention. Notwithstanding the heavy traffic, the railway company cleared this barge on the day of arrival and the contents of wheat arrived at destination on the 21st instant. Another barge for the same consignee arrived at Deptford on the 10th instant, but the other having been given preference this had to take its turn with others, and it would not be cleared until the 22nd instant. The railway company are taking all possible measures to deal promptly with the traffic offering at Deptford Wharf.