§ 77. Mr. Higgsasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that in Berlin there is one omnibus route covering 2,460 miles daily running entirely on 1890 high-pressure gas, and in Hanover coal-gas is being retailed at approximately two-fifths the price of petrol; and, in view of the fact that the Birmingham Corporation has spent £5,000 on successful experimental work, is he prepared to collaborate with them to further the development of compressed gas, which would be of great benefit in the case of national emergency?
§ Mr. BurginI am aware generally of the experiments which have been made in the use of compressed gas as a fuel for motor vehicles, and shall welcome the opportunity to study further any developments in this field.
§ Mr. Louis SmithDoes not the Minister consider that this is a very important question; and will he, in the interests of national economy and in the interests of the coal industry, give instructions to his Department to have every point carefully examined?
§ Mr. BurginI think that that follows automatically. I have already said that I shall welcome the study of further developments. I am well informed on the matter, and I appreciate the interests to which my hon. Friend has referred.