HC Deb 22 March 1927 vol 204 cc219-20W
Colonel DAY

asked the Minister of Transport, if he is aware that many trucks of coal which left the pit-heads in South Yorkshire and the Midlands on 7th January have now taken over seven weeks in transit and have not yet been delivered; and what representations or action he has taken with the railway companies to facilitate delivery of coal both for domestic and factory use?

Colonel ASHLEY

I am aware generally that in certain districts coal traffic has been delayed in transit, and I am in communication with the railway companies concerned.

Colonel DAY

asked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that the London and North Eastern Railway Company are unable to accept for delivery at Waltham Cross coal from South Wales; that at one colliery 200 tons of anthracite coal have been on the sidings since 1st February; that this congestion is leading to short time being worked by the miners; and what steps he proposes to take to remedy this state of affairs?

Colonel ASHLEY

I am aware that there has recently been some difficulty in the acceptance by the London and North Eastern Railway of coal traffic from South Wales, and I am in communication with the company on the matter generally and will bring the specific complaint made by the hon. and gallant Member to their notice.