HC Deb 21 February 1945 vol 408 cc781-2
29. Mr. Kirby

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport if he will, in conjunction with the holidays-at-home policy, consider permitting the use of motor coaches during the summer months for short journeys, say up to 50 miles, so that industrial workers may enjoy portions of their annual holidays in the air and scenery of the countryside.

Mr. Noel-Baker

My Noble Friend is anxious to authorise increased local omnibus services, where such services are required, to enable people who stay at home to enjoy the attractions provided by municipal programmes for holidays at home. I regret, however, that the shortage of man-power and the need to save fuel and rubber will make it impossible to provide the longer distance services proposed by my hon. Friend.

Mr. Kirby

Would the Minister be good enough to ask his Noble Friend to look into the matter again, as the reply will be very disappointing to a very large number of workpeople?

Mr. Noel-Baker

If we could get more bus crews, and more rubber, we should very gladly do it.

Mr. Glenvil Hall

Would it not be a good thing if, instead of running greater distances, buses ran a little later in the evening?

Mr. Noel-Baker

This is a matter we have looked into, and we have made adjustments in a number of cases.