Britain's Vast Railway Industry

The important position of the railways, as one of the largest employers of labour in Britain, cannot be over-emphasised (says the Railway Newsletter). In addition to nearly 700,000 permanent staff, their large orders for materials and manufactured goods give employment to many thousands in various industries, and it is claimed that at least one-twelfth of the population of the country is dependent for its living on the railway industry.

The amount spent by the four railway groups annually for upkeep and development totals more than £40,000,000, and they are among the largest purchasers of coal, iron and other materials in the country. Materials for the repair and renewal of the permanent way cost £4,250,000 per annum and for locomotives, carriages and wagons £14,500,000.