Statements for August 1959 attached as Appendix "A".
727. DIESEL MULTIPLE UNIT DE LUXE
PULLMAN SERVICE MANCHESTER - ST.PANCRAS
(a) Delivery of trains
Noted that first train now delivered to Derby and undergoing
trials. Second train to be delivered to Derby on December 16th.
(b) Commencement of service
Mr.Randle reported that, during the running trials of the first
train, various faults had been found, including a serious one concerning the
riding over the power bogies, which may necessitate these cars being returned to
the makers. Mr.Randle expressed doubt as to whether the train could be put
right in time to go into service in February 1960 and it was agreed that a
decision on the date of commencement of the service be deferred until the next
meeting, by which time it was hoped that a definite decision could be made.
(c) Inspection by Diesel Trains Committee
Agreed this be arranged for Thursday, December 10th between Luton
and Leicester, on the assumption that the train will be on a running trial that
day.
(d) Publicity
Noted that the exhibition of the first train at Marylebone during
week ending November 27th had been postponed and a new date had not yet been
arranged.
Mr.Crawshaw was taking the initiative in regard to the essential
publicity covering pictorial poster and press advertising and the printing of
a special brochure. The information in the latter would be agreed with the
Pullman Car Company.
Two newspapers, "The Guardian" and "The Evening News" would be
carrying special feature articles regarding the trains just prior to the
introduction of the service.
(e) Maintenance and Cleaning
The Chairman said the General Manager had emphasised the importance
of the trains being cleaned, maintained and serviced to impeccable standards and
that he is prepared to authorise some additional expenditure on special equipment
which may be needed to achieve the desired high standard. It was noted
that Messrs.Arkle and Robson were collaborating to ensure that the arrangements
made were completely satisfactory.
