asked the Minister for Transport and Power if the diesel engines imported by CIE from General Motors, USA are satisfactory; if he will state the number of those engines at present in use and the number immobilised; and if they have given the same satisfaction as those formerly used by CIE.

I am informed by CIE that of the 52 General Motors locomotives owned by the Board, one is temporarily immobilised and the others are in traffic at present. It would not be a matter for me to compare the performance of engines of varying types and sizes purchased by CIE at different times but I am informed by CIE that the diesel locomotives supplied by General Motors have proved very reliable and economic in service and in accordance with the performance expected of them.