In 1912 the British did not anticipate fighting a war on their own soil, but did anticipate the use of the railways as a massive facilitator for troops in the forthcoming European war. The author had access to official information when compiling this important semi-official work, which covers all aspects from the preparations for war in 1912 until the end of the Railway Executive Committee control in 1921. In addition to a general survey there is an account for each major railway company. Much technical information is included throughout this monumental work of reference.