§ 12. Mr. Channonasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that people evacuating from East and South Coast towns are being charged exorbitant prices for furniture removals; and will he take steps to prevent this in future?
§ Sir J. ReithYes, Sir. Allegations have been made, and if any specific cases are given me, they will be investigated. The Government would take a serious view of any attempt at exploitation, and I am glad to say that the National Association of Furniture Warehousemen and Removers have offered to co-operate in preventing it.
§ Mr. LeslieWill any attempt be made to prevent this profiteering; and is the Minister aware that in regard to people living at Southend, I know of one case in particular where four estimates were asked for furniture to be removed to London and that the estimates were £30, £20, £18 18s. and £7 respectively?
§ Sir J. ReithIf the hon. Member will furnish me with those particulars, I shall be very glad to investigate the case.
§ Mr. Robert GibsonCan the Minister say whether a special ration of petrol is given for this purpose?
§ Sir J. ReithThat is one of the methods by which control might be exercised.