§ 88. Mr. A. Edward Daviesasked the Minister of Transport what restrictions there are on the movement of timber by rail from Hull and other North-Eastern ports to Midland towns, including Stoke-on-Trent; and what steps are being taken to avoid congestion and delay in view of the need for expeditious deliveries for housing purposes.
§ Mr. BarnesNo restrictions have been imposed by the railways during recent months which would hinder the movement of timber from Hull to Stoke-on-Trent. There was a restriction from 23rd to 28th October which prevented movement from West Hartlepool to Stoke. Movement to some midland towns may be affected at present by the restrictions which limit movement southwards via Doncaster, Sheffield or Normanton. The need for these restrictions arises mainly from a shortage of locomotives and all possible steps are being taken to ease the situation.