HC Deb 22 May 1941 vol 371 cc1572-3
26. Mr. Tinker

asked the Home Secretary whether he will have inquiries made into the attendance at dog-race meetings; whether such attendances are interfering with ordinary transport; and whether the use of motor cars is taking petrol that could be made better use of for essential needs of the war?

Mr. H. Morrison

The attendance at dog-racing meetings is already subject to restrictions in relation to the capacity of the individual track. I am informed that the times of meetings are so arranged that ordinary transport is not interfered with. The use of petrol, apart from the small basic allowance to private motorists, is not permissible under the Motor Fuel Rationing Order, and I understand that active steps are being taken to check it.

Mr. Tinker

I am very pleased to hear that this is being done, because it has been causing great concern to people to see petrol consumed for these purposes.

Mr. George Griffiths

Will my right hon. Friend see that these people do the same as the miners do at dog-racing tracks? I saw one last Sunday, and there was not a motor car there. The men had to walk.

Mr. Morrison

That is a useful commentary on the observation of the hon. Member.