§ Mr. Grovesasked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that a certain section of the London and North Eastern Railway is not used to its fullest capacity; that there is machinery available for more effective production; and whether he will be prepared to consult with the members of the borough, in conjunction with the trade union representatives, in order that these workshops may be more useful in the national effort?
§ Mr. AsshetonI am informed that the manufacturing capacity not fully utilised at the workshop in question is mainly wood-working capacity, of which there is, under present conditions, a surplus in this country. The possibility of making further use of this and other railway workshops for munitions production, with due regard to the need for railway maintenance work, is having the attention of the Departments concerned. My Noble Friend the Minister of War Transport and my right hon. Friend would always welcome specific suggestions to this end.