Mr. A. T. DAVIESasked the. Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport whether, since the cost of labour and the cost of coal are at present the principal components of railway rates, 2124W and since both these items have been materially reduced from the highest level where they stood when the railway rates for wood manufactured in this country were increased, in the case of homegrown timber railway rates form from 25 per cent. to 30 per cent. of their cost to purchasers, he will make representations to the railway companies with a view to reducing such rates and encouraging home trade?
§ Mr. NEALI have been in communication with the railway companies on this matter. I am informed that they are unable at present to see their way to make any reduction in the rates in England and Wales. In these circumstances, the traders can, if they desire, submit their complaint to the Rates Tribunal.