§ 12. Mr. Sharpasked the Minister of Transport to what extent the large accumulations of full coal wagons in railway sidings in January were due to shortage of shunters; to what extent other factors contributed; and what action he is taking to ensure that coal is dispatched and delivered promptly to where it is required.
§ Mr. BarnesThe main cause of railway operating difficulties is shortage of locomotives; this was aggravated during January by bad weather. Shortage of experienced railway staff, including shunters, particularly in London and the Midlands, is a contributory factor. The movement of coal is accorded priority on the railways and large numbers of passenger trains have been withdrawn in order further to facilitate this movement. I am glad to say that the clearance and delivery of coal by the railways has been proceeding most satisfactorily.
§ 30. Mr. Edward Daviesasked the Minister of Transport to what extent arrears of coal traffic have been overcome on the railways; and what is the present position.
§ Mr. BarnesAt 6 a.m. on 7th February, after the first impact of the blizzard, the number of loaded coal wagons in transit on the railways or awaiting clearance from the collieries was 95,593. At 6 a.m. on 21st February this had been reduced to 67,158, which is less than the normal winter number. At the same time during the week ended 20th February more coal was cleared from collieries than in any week since June last.