§ Mr. MYERSasked the Minister of Transport the extent to which third-class passenger coaches have recently been utilised upon the Great Northern express trains between King's Cross and Leeds which were self-contained, without corridor connection and lavatory accommodation, compartments with only plain wooden seating; why this service was inaugurated; and, if the practice has not already been discontinued, if he will take the necessary steps to have reasonable travelling facilities provided?
§ Sir E. GEDDESIn order to maintain the best possible service during the existing coal shortage, it is desirable in the public interest that companies should reduce the weight of trains, and for this purpose the use of non-corridor stock is desirable. For long distance travelling upholstered stock, if available, would certainly be more desirable than that with plain wooden seats, and I am in communication with the Great Northern Company on the point.