§ 25. Lieut.-Colonel Thorpasked the Minister of War Transport if he is aware that lorries used for essential road and construction work have had to be abandoned on the roadside owing to lack of replacement of 34 ×7 covers for tyres; and when tyre covers will be available for quarries and hauliers transporting material essential for road maintenance and the manufacture of concrete.
§ The President of the Board of Trade (Sir Stafford Cripps)I have been asked to reply. I am aware that there is a shortage of 34 ×7 covers for tyres, but steps have been taken to increase production and as new equipment now on order becomes available the position will show a steady improvement. If the hon. and gallant Member will furnish particulars of work held up by shortage of tyres, I will have enquiries made.