I see !
Hi Al
If I remember correctly this is an over flow pipe straight down to the drain, as you know on these they don't really have a pump, a cable operated mechanical valve open and closes determined by the timer , this over rides this and as they were designed for the drain hose to be below the machine ie on a trolley or draining board I suppose it's a safety feature .
There quite quiet machines with a nice washing sound , mine had the added mechanical whirr of the timer which operated the cables, and also the push on button rotates to act as a cycle progress indicator .
Thanks Mike, if your ever near Durham let me know I'll try my best to show you it !
Cheers Richard