§ 80. Mr. Awberyasked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that a special party of about 20 persons travelled from Paddington to Birkenhead to launch the ss. "St. David," and that three sleeping cars, two saloon coaches, a generating van and special water tank were used; that a special shunting engine was reserved for the movement of these coaches, a relief train standing by, a special engine to provide steam-heat through the night and that orders were given that special attention should be given to the cleaning, lighting, gassing, watering and steam heaving of these carriages; and if he will take steps in the future to prevent a repetition of this waste of manpower.
§ Mr. BarnesI am informed that the party in question travelled by coaches attached to ordinary trains and involved no special mileage: In present conditions even such an occasion as the launch of a ship does not justify the provision of special facilities and I have so informed the railway companies.