§ Mr. BOWERMANasked the Minister of Transport if at any time instructions have been issued regarding the maximum length of freight trains; whether he is aware that such trains frequently have a make-up from 50 to 60 wagons; and whether, in shunting such long trains into sidings to permit of the passing of fast passenger trains, the risk of accidents arising is increased?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThe make-up of freight trains is a matter for the railway companies, but it is the case that such trains are frequently at the length which the right hon. Gentleman mentions. I am advised that there should be no danger in shunting such trains into sidings provided that the usual precautions are observed.