§ 15. Sir Herbert Williamsasked the Secretary of State for War if he can now make a statement about the consumption of petrol in the case where 49 military vehicles called three times at a petrol station in order to refuel.
§ Sir J. GriggOn 20th May, four Bren carriers and three lorries called at this petrol pump during the half-hour when the military pump attendant was at lunch 1189 They had to return at 2.30 p.m. to be refuelled. The attendant is normally relieved for lunch, but on this day there was, unfortunately, no relief available. The investigations have not confirmed that any larger number of vehicles attempted to refuel at this pump.
§ Sir H. WilliamsAs the manager of the petrol station told me that he had counted 49 vehicles, and as there is no reason why he should exaggerate, will my right hon. Friend make further inquiries, and find someone who can count?
§ Sir J. GriggMy inquiries included the manager of the garage where the pump is situated, and, unfortunately, there is some conflict between the evidence.