HC Deb 19 February 1917 vol 90 c959
11. Major NEWMAN

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of a possible shortage of fodder and the consequent premature and wasteful slaughter of live stock, he has considered the further demands on the available fodder if the withdrawal of facilities to obtain petrol make it necessary for private individuals to have recourse to horse-drawn traffic; and whether he will weigh this consideration in determining the tonnage allotted to imports of petrol?

Lieut.-Colone Sir C. SEELY

Before the hon. Gentleman answers that question, may I ask whether he is aware that for every mile of horse-drawn traffic substituted for petrol from five to eight times the weight and bulk of forage, etc., will have to be imported as against the petrol saved?

Mr. ROBERTS

Yes, Sir, I am quite aware of it, and I will take notice of the fact. All relevant considerations will be given their due weight in dealing with the petrol question.

Major NEWMAN

I give notice that on the Third Reading of the Consolidated Fund Bill to-morrow, I will endeavour to raise this question?