§ 44. Mr. W. THORNEasked the Prime Minister if he is aware that a number of local authorities have passed a resolution viewing with the utmost concern the steadily rising price of motor-fuel, pointing out the danger to the community arising therefrom, and request that immediate steps be taken to secure the production and distribution of power alcohol within the Empire under the immediate supervision and control of the Government?
§ Sir R. HORNEMy attention has been drawn to the resolution. The Fuel Research Board have for a considerable time past been making investigations and experiments in the production of alternative supplies of motor fuel, including power alcohol. Their interim report issued in July last gives the results of these inquiries up to that time. I am sending the hon. Member a copy. The research work is being continued.
§ Mr. JESSONMay I ask who is responsible for the issuing of the Report, and is the right hon. Gentleman aware that power alcohol is being produced in Africa at considerably below the price mentioned?
§ Sir R. HORNEI am not aware that it is being produced in Africa below this price. The Report shows the latest results of the investigations of the Committee appointed here.
§ Mr. JESSONDoes the right hon. Gentleman accept such a Report as a proper one?
§ Sir R. HORNEI undoubtedly do.
§ Mr. MACQUISTENHas the Committee taken into consideration that there are enormous supplies of material arising from sugar plantations for making power alcohol, and which is at present being wasted?
§ Sir R. HORNEThat has been considered by the Committee.