HC Deb 21 July 1942 vol 381 cc1388-9
19. Sir A. Knox

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether, in view of the difficulty experienced by the occupants of lonely farms and farm cottages in obtaining paraffin for cooking and lighting, he will arrange for the issue to such consumers of special permits for a month's supply at a time, in order to avoid unnecessary transport and the cost of delivery in small quantities?

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Fuel and Power (Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd)

The quantity of paraffin oil to be supplied at any time is dependent on the supplies available and the essential needs of the consumer. No permit is at present necessary. If my hon. and gallant Friend has in mind a particular case of difficulty, and will send me details of it, I will make inquiries.

Sir A. Knox

Is it not possible to enable the local fuel controllers to issue these allowances every month in special cases, as the matter is really important in agricultural districts?

Mr. Lloyd

I should like to have the details.

Sir Percy Hurd

Is not the Minister aware that many cottagers now board extra workers who are on the land, and to whom a hot meal at the end of the day is really essential?

Mr. Lloyd

Yes, Sir. That is considered.