HC Deb 09 April 1941 vol 370 c1560
44. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that comparative prices for used motor vehicles have voluntarily been published for some years; and whether he will now consider fixing a maximum retail price on each year and model of used motor vehicles?

Lieut.-Colonel Moore-Brabazon

Owing to the increased difficulty and expense in obtaining repairs to private cars at the present time, a fair price for a vehicle depends to a much greater extent than formerly on its condition, and prices fixed on any other basis than the examination of individual vehicles would be too high for a car in poor condition or too low for one in good condition. Even the pre-war guides, which were, no doubt, based on an average of market conditions, indicated that the figures given required adjustment, according to the condition of the vehicle.

Mr. Sorensen

Does the right hon. and gallant Gentleman appreciate that, in spite of what he has stated, there is a good deal of concern about the unnecessary rise in prices of used motor vehicles? Will he consider some form of control?

Lieut.-Colonel Moore-Brabazon

Not yet.