HC Deb 30 September 1941 vol 374 c462
65. Sir I. Albery

asked the Secretary for Petroleum what percentage of petrol coupons issued remain unaccounted for and unreturned through regional or district officers for the last period for which figures are available?

The Secretary for Petroleum (Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd)

The figure for the latest period is approximately 1½ per cent. of the petrol value of the coupons issued.

66. Mr. Leach

asked the Secretary for Petroleum whether his attention has been drawn to the increased road-death figures, estimated at 10,000 for the past 12 months, with a heavy proportion of children; and will he once more consider a further reduction of petrol supplies to private motorists, not only as a measure for the reduction of road deaths but also to conserve national supplies and shipping space?

Mr. Lloyd

The avoidance of road accidents depends on a number of factors other than petrol issues. I may, however, remind the hon. Member that a further reduction in the supply of petrol for the motorist will take place in October and the succeeding months.

Mr. Leach

While feeling grateful to the Minister for this reduction, may I ask whether he does not agree that the time has now arrived when all private motoring should be stopped?

Mr. Lloyd

No, Sir.

Sir Ernest Shepperson

Will the Minister consider preventing children playing with marbles and whip tops on the highways?