§ 91. Mr. FELLasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if any attempt is going to be made by the Government to promote economy during the War; if his attention has been called to the fact that over 2,000 664 motor cars were present at a recent race meeting; and if, in face of this, public money is to be spent in great posters on the hoardings begging people not to use motor cars for pleasure?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe Government is endeavouring to promote economy by every means—by the prohibition of imports, by taxation, and by the activities of the National War Savings Committee. The fact, if it be a fact, stated in the latter part of the question appears to me to be a reason for extending rather than for ceasing our efforts to create a healthy public sentiment on the subject.
§ Sir A. MARKHAMDoes not the right hon. Gentleman see, in view of the appeals made by the Government in regard to economy, that these thousand—[An HON. MEMBER: "Two thousand!"]—motor cars run for this purpose is sheer waste?
§ Mr. McKENNAI do not know whether the right hon. Gentleman can vouch for the fact whether 1,000 or 2,000 motor cars were used on any occasion.
§ Sir HEDWORTH MEUXMay I point out to the right hon. Gentleman that the reason these 2,000 motor cars were used was because the Government had refused to allow the ordinary facilities by railway trains?
§ Mr. W. THORNEMay I ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the Government intend to deal with the question of prohibiting horseracing altogether?
§ Mr. McKENNAIf my hon. Friend will address his question to the appropriate Minister, I am sure he will get an answer.
§ Mr. THORNEWill the right hon. Gentleman say who is the appropriate Minister?
§ Mr. McKENNAI am unable to do so without notice.
§ Mr. THORNEI will ask the Prime Minister—the head of the Government.