§ 46. Sir HENRY CRAIKasked the Prime Minister whether or to what extent it was the custom that motor cars or other means of conveyance were supplied at public expense to Ministers as officers in the public service before the War; to what extent it was found necessary to do so during the War; to what extent it still continuous; what numbers of motors cars are now in use by officers in the War Office; and whether the supply and use of such motors at public expense can now cease and the officers be required to use the ordinary means of conveyance?
§ The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Chamberlain)It was not the custom before the War to supply Ministers with motor cars at the public expense. During the War the position has changed, and for various reasons it has been found necessary to supply Ministers holding the more important offices under the Crown with motor cars at the public expense. The number of cars employed for War Office purposes at present is forty-three. The use of cars is restricted to work in connection with the public service. As regards the last part of the question, I do not think that it would be in the public interest that the supply and use of motor cars for public officials generally, including officers of His Majesty's Forces, should be wholly discontinued. The whole question of the use of such cars, whether by Ministers or other officials, is now being considered by the Government with a view to its restriction as far as may be and to the establish- 1847 ment of a stricter control than has been practicable under the exceptional conditions prevailing during the War.
§ Sir H. CRAIKIf when war conditions have ceased will the use of motor cars by Ministers revert to the custom before the War?
§ Mr. CHAMBERLAINThat is one of the questions which is now under consideration by the Government. At a later date if the right hon. Gentleman will put a question to my right hon. Friend no doubt he will make a statement on the whole matter.