§ 69. Mr. HIGHAMasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions if he will explain the details of the financial arrangement that has been come to between the Ministry of Munitions and the London General Omnibus Company in regard to the lorries to be used for passenger traffic in London?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYThe Disposal Board have sold to the London General Omnibus Company a number of Associated Equipment Company chassis and lorries at full market value. This transaction is purely a selling operation. In addition to these the Board of Trade are negotiating with the Disposal Board for a large number of lorries for the purpose of relieving the traffic congestion. The financial arrangements for the transfer of these have not been completed, but subject to the protection of the interests of the taxpayer, the Disposal Board will immediately place these lorries at the disposal of the Board of Trade which is carrying on the negotiations with the company.
§ Mr. BILLINGCan he say what market price—whether pre-war or present market price?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYOh, present market price, not pre-war.
§ Lieut-Commander KENWORTHYIs there any limitation on the fares that will be charged in the selling contract?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYThat does not arise out of this question.