§ 58. Mr. W. Brownasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether, before he announces the adoption by the Ministry of a standardised design of producer-gas plant for motor vehicles, he will give road transport organisations and existing manufacturers an opportunity of examining the specifications and suggesting improvements; and whether he will direct that the skill and resources of existing makers will be fully utilised in the manufacture of this or any other type of producer-gas plant?
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport (Mr. Noel-Baker)The design of producer chosen for public service vehicles has been successfully operated for a considerable time by one of the largest omnibus interests in the country. The design chosen for goods vehicles has been subjected to intensive tests under the supervision of a Committee of experts. Experience will doubtless suggest improvements, but immediate action is now required, and for that reason I cannot accept my hon. Friend's suggestion that there should be further consultations 2156 before manufacture is begun. My hon. Friend may, however, be assured that the closest touch is being maintained with road transport interests. My Noble Friend will bear in mind the skill and resources of all manufacturers of producer gas plants. But my hon. Friend will appreciate that many factors must be borne in mind, including the advantages of mass-production, and the lower cost and faster output which that will give.