§ 80. Mr. ALDENasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether the Road Transport Board is about to take over the whole of the road transport of the country, with a view to the better distribution of food; and if he can make any statement as to the methods to be employed?
§ Mr. WARDLEI have been asked by my hon. Friend to answer this question. It is not proposed to take over the road transport of the country, but the. Road Transport Board has been appointed to take such measures as may be necessary to ensure the most economic use of road transport vehicles and their efficient allocation for meeting such requirements as may arise from time to time for the transport of food, munitions, and other war material, and for the essential needs of the trade and industry of the country. Powers have been taken under a Defence of the Realm Regulation to enable the Road Transport Board to carry out its functions.
§ Mr. FRANCEDoes the Board propose to appoint local committees, who understand local conditions?
§ Mr. WARDLELocal committees are being appointed to co-operate.