HC Deb 28 May 1941 vol 371 c1830
10. Mr. McKinlay

asked the Secretary of State for Air under what terms and conditions motor tip-wagons, requisitioned by his officers in Scotland are used by con tractors, whether time, tonnage, or mile age?

Sir A. Sinclair

The vehicles requisitioned for use by contractors engaged on Air Ministry work are hired on a time basis, usually at an hourly or daily rate, calculated on carrying capacity.

Mr. McKinlay

In view of the fact that the Ministry must undoubtedly be making a profit on these wagons, will the Minister see that compensation paid for requisitioning will be something in excess of 50 per cent. of the value?

Sir A. Sinclair

We are pursuing a more simple course, which, I think, will be fairer all round and, incidentally, fairer to the public. In future we are not going to requisition these vehicles; we are going to buy them.