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686.  DIESEL MULTIPLE UNIT DE LUXE PULLMAN SERVICE MANCHESTER - ST.PANCRAS

1.  Utilisation of stand-by train

The Chairman said that the Secretary General had been advised in the terms of the joint report considered at the previous meeting and the question had now been raised as to what use would be recommended for the stand-by train on the assumption of 100% availability and repliability of the train in service.

After considerable discussion on the possibilities of the use of the stand-by train, it was unanimously agreed by the members of the Committee that-

(a)  The assumption of 100% availability could not be accepted as sound as, apart from the possibility of failure, it will be necessary for the train to be periodically sent to Works for maintenance purposes, such as tyre turning, etc.

(b)  One train could not remain in service at all times and replacement with ordinary stock whcih could not achieve the running schedule required would break faith with the public.

(c)  It is essential, in order to ensure reliability and availability of this special service, that a complete train set be reserved as a cover for the regular service in operation.

(d)  Each of the two trains will in any event be in service alternate weeks in order that maintenance may be kept at the high standard necessary.

Nevertheless, if despite what is stated in (a) to (d) there must be assumed 100% availability, the best use for the stand-by train would be in the reverse direction to the service being planned for the train in operation, i.e. St.Pancras to Manchester Central, but this is definitely not recommended by the Committee.

The Committee were of opinion that the Secretary General's reaction to the report sent to him be awaited.

2.  Noise of auxiliary engines in stations

Noted that shot estimates as shown below for the supply of the necessary shore base equipment have been furnished to the Chief Mechanical Engineer. -