42. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Transport whether he will now take steps to utilise those powers which he possesses to recall into National Service all those motor vehicles to-day mobilised in sheds, barns and garages; and whether he will take steps to obtain the necessary powers and organise their use when and wherever most needed?
§ The Minister of Transport (Lieut.-Colonel Moore-Brabazon)I can assure my hon. Friend that I have the necessary powers, and if and when it appears to me that conditions are becoming such as to warrant the step suggested by my hon. Friend, I shall not hesitate to use them.
Mr. De la BèreDoes my right hon. and gallant Friend not realise that these motor vehicles might be of considerable benefit in easing the problem of coal transport, and will he not try utilising them for the distribution of coal throughout the country?
§ Lieut.-Colonel Moore-BrabazonI have the matter in view.
Mr. De la BèreDoes my right hon. and gallant Friend realise that the coal situation is very serious?
§ Sir F. SandersonIs it not true that the general public have responded magnificently to all the appeals made to them by my right hon. Friend?
§ Lieut.-Colonel Moore-BrabazonThat is true.