Five locomotives were used for the parcels work; these were
quite separate and were not included in the 18, which are
necessary for working of passenger and freight trains through
and outside the area.
(b) West Cumberland
Scheme
Three vans delivered and experimentally working in West
Cumberland, Stoke and Birmingham areas. Mr.Gould
reported that the investigation into the working of these
vans was still proceeding. Mr.Nicholls said that
estimated variable costs had been compiled for guidance in
the investigation and it was agreed that the whole question
of the working of the parcels vans be studied on the
financial information supplied, the final report to be
considered by the Committee.
(c) Manchester Part 2
scheme
Two vans authorised; delivery June 1959.
(d) St.Pancras Suburban
Scheme
Two vans authorised; delivery June 1959.
(6) Coupling together of
units
Noted that Eastern Region expect shortly to receive authority for
expenditure of £2,500 for fitting of special control system
on two prototype cars to enable cars with Rolls Royce engines to
inter-couple with other cars, after which fitting would proceed
at Derby Works.
(7) Units out of service for Works
attention
Noted that B.T.C. weekly return No.1A/M.P. which shows the average
daily position of diesel motor car vehicles available on all
Regions gives the information required.
Mr.Stanley drew attention to the
fact that the L.M.Region had a greater variety of types of units
that other Regions which necessitated a multiplicity of spares,
and it was to be expected that the L.M.Region figures of units
out of service for Works attention would not be so favourable
as other Regions.
Mr.Gould said that, at the
departmental meeting on July 16th, certain recommendations had
been made to improve the availability and these were under
examination by the Chief Mechanical & Electrical
Engineer. A report on the matter was awaited and Mr.Stanley
would pursue.
