(d) Ash trays in Birmingham C.& W. Company's 3-car units - Complaints
from public and C.& W. Engineer reports ash trays as poor type. Mr.
Stanley reported that the cost to replace the present ash trays with a
larger type would be 15/- per ash tray, and it was agreed that no further
action be taken in regard to changing the ash trays.
552. RAIL BUSES FOR RURAL AREAS
1. Design - Noted that Western and Scottish Regions have requested
retractable steps be fitted, but L.M. prepared to accept the buses as provision has been made for steps to be fitted later if desired. Agreed that, having regard to further closing of branch lines, Chief Carriage & Wagon Engineering Officer be asked what fitting of steps would mean in both cost and time.
2. Proposals for employment of four rail buses on L.M.R. - Mr.
Gould reported that the three branches chosen for the introduction of rail
buses were now to be inspected.
Mr.Nicholls gave estimated costs of the operation of the branches chosen for operation by rail buses from which it appeared that considerable reductions in expenditure could be made if the remaining steam mileage could be eliminated by the employment of five instead of four rail buses. Mr.Nicholls will supply information to Messrs. Gould and Dow for further enquiry.
3. Banbury - Bletchley service. Noted that the question of the withdrawal of the diesel service on this branch is still under consideration. Possibility of the employment of diesel units if they become available on the Buxton - Millers Dale branch is being investigated.
553 INTER-CITY TRAINS
1. Design of units. Further meeting with technical officers
of the B.T.C. has not yet been held, but additional information supplied by
Messrs. Harrison and Harris has been sent to the technical officers who have
commented thereon. The General Manager has asked for a joint report from Messrs. Harris and Harrison before a further meeting is arranged. (See also Minute 551.4.)
