The next to last column shows the time which is unaccounted for because wagons are standing idle somewhere away from terminals and not in the course of movement. Therefore, this time, expressed as a percentage of the terminal time plus movement time, gives a measure of the gross surplus capacity which exists. Clearly, with a system of the type which we have, and with seasonal fluctuations in load, some surplus is necessary, but surpluses as large as some of those indicated by the figures are clearly excessive.
Other relevant factors are: the changing pattern of traffic, the movement towards more through-train working, the elimination of the poor wagon utilisation at small stations and on branch lines, and the obsolescence of much of the stock. All these reinforce the view that rapid reduction of the fleet should continue. The position will be reviewed as reduction proceeds, but it is expected that at least 348,000 wagons will be scrapped over the next 3 years, with a total annual saving of £10 m.-£12 m. per annum thereafter.
The reductions which were made in 1962, and the position as it will be at the end of 1963, and those planned for 1963 are shown below. The condemnations already decided upon for 1963 can be seen from the following summary, and further withdrawals in the year may yet be decided upon.
Summary of Stock Position of Wagons and Containers, 1961-1962-1963
Wagons
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Турe Stock at 31st December, 1961 Stock at 31st December, 1962 Anticipated stock at 31st December, 1963 Reduction in 1963 compared with 1961
Open 232,416 191,563 152,466 79,950 Covered 140,043 136,199 134,086 5,957 Mineral 508,816 464,199 416,607 92,209 Cattle 4,989 4,409 2,500 2,489 Steel carrying 55,279 52,221 42,899 12,380 TOTAL 941,543 848,591 748,558 192,985
Containers
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Type Stock at 31st December, 1961 Stock at 31st December, 1962 Anticipated Stock at 31st December, 1963 Reduction in 1963 compared with 1961
Open Covered Others TOTAL 7,309 6,782 1,763 5,546 18,172 22,815 17,389 14,200 3,972 22,364 20,348 2,467 PLOTE 48,296
46,535 36,311
11,985
48
