HC Deb 04 August 1943 vol 391 cc2281-2
30. Professor Savory

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he is aware that Axis representatives have been seen in Eire touring the Irish countryside in motor-cars driven by American petrol which British sailors have risked their lives to bring to Britain and whether he has taken any steps to put a stop to the importation of petrol into Eire?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Deliveries of petroleum products to Eire have been very drastically reduced. My hon. Friend will, I am certain, agree that we must ensure the continued export to the United Kingdom of the valuable agricultural products which we receive from Eire. It is not practicable to control the uses to which the Eire authorities may put their very limited supplies of petroleum products.

Professor Savory

Does the hon. Gentleman not realise that the statement in the Question is based on an authoritative document which is absolutely irrefutable, and if he will spy Strangers I shall be glad to read the whole paper to the House?

Sir Joseph Lamb

Can the hon. Gentleman say which of the Axis representatives are exporting agricultural produce to this country?

Mr. Noel-Baker

I think, if my hon. Friend will look at my answer, he will see that I did not make that suggestion.

Major Petherick

Will the hon. Gentleman see that any imports of petrol into Eire must be carried either in Eire ships or in neutral ships without the protection of the British Navy?