HC Deb 23 February 1943 vol 387 cc20-1
35. Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power the price of petrol to users in the Outer Hebrides and the amount by which this exceeds mainland prices; the reasons for the higher prices paid in the Outer Hebrides; and when he proposes to end this discrimination against the islands?

The Minister of Fuel and Power (Major Lloyd George)

The retail price of petrol in Lewis is 2s. 4d. per gallon, which is 1½d. per gallon higher than the price on the North Mainland of Scotland. In the other islands of the Outer Hebrides the price is rather higher. I cannot agree that there has been any discrimination against the islands, as His Majesty's Government has simply approved the continuation of the pre-war practice of charging to petrol consumers in remote areas part of the additional distribution costs.

Mr. MacMillan

In view of the fact that all the petrol used in these islands is used in one or another form of public service, why should there be this extra charge?

Major Lloyd George

It is purely the continuation of a practice which was accepted before the war. The difference is exactly the same as existed then, and it is not confined to petrol.

Mr. MacMillan

Does the right hon. and gallant Gentleman think that if a wrong practice existed before the war it should be continued now?

Major Lloyd George

I do not accept that this was a wrong practice.

Mr. MacMillan

Will the right hon. and gallant Gentleman give me any real justification why the people in the Outer Hebrides should be penalised by having to pay higher prices?

Major Lloyd George

It is very much more difficult to get the commodity there and much more expensive.

Mr. MacMillan

Is it not the case that certain rationed foods and various other commodities are sold there at the same price as in other parts of the country?