§ 70. Mr. Ralph Ethertonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs on what basis petrol is allotted to the various Allied Governments and Embassies in London; and whether consideration and encouragement are given to those who use small motor-cars and discouragement to those whose fleet consists exclusively of large high-powered motor-cars?
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Richard Law)Petrol is allotted to the Allied Governments and Embassies in London, as to other foreign Embassies and Legations here, on the basis of their ascertained requirements. The question is constantly reviewed and economies are brought about wherever possible. The attention of the Allied Governments in London has lately been invited to the desirability of using small cars where these will suffice, in order to economise in the rubber needed for tyres. The adoption of this suggestion would naturally mean economy in the use of petrol as well.
§ Mr. EthertonWill my hon. Friend draw the attention of certain Powers to 664 the example of the Fighting French Diplomatic Corps?
§ Mr. LawI have told my hon. Friend the steps that we have taken in regard to the Allied Governments. There is no reason to suppose that they are making any abuse of these facilities.
§ Commander Locker-LampsonIs my hon. Friend aware that Lord Gort rides a bicycle? Would not Ministers in this country try to follow suit?