§ 84. Mr. J. Morrisonasked the Secretary of State for Air what tonnage of R.A F. surplus bombs, due for dumping in the sea, has been transported since 1st January, 1946, from Wiltshire to Stranraer in Scotland; and, in view of the shortage of rolling stock, why a more direct route to the sea was not made use of.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerFrom 1st January, 1946, to the end of June, 1947, about 11,000 tons of bombs were transported for disposal from Wiltshire to Stranraer. After full consideration, all the Departments concerned, including the Ministry of Transport, agreed that Stranraer was he most suitable port for the purpose, and that transport must be by rail. I am writing to the hon. Member to explain the technical reasons for this decision.