HC Deb 02 December 1946 vol 431 cc16-7
61. Mr. Medlicott

asked the Minister of Transport if he will arrange for doctors and district nurses to be given some priority in regard to the delivery of new motor-cars.

Mr. Barnes

I am not prepared to re-impose control over the allocation of new motor-cars. The motor industry is giving as much preference as possible to the delivery of cars required by doctors and midwives.

Major Legge-Bourke

Is there not some other way in which the Minister can get priority for these people without applying the priority over the whole country? There are some cases in which these cars are urgently needed. Will he do something about it?

Mr. Barnes

There is no way unless I reimpose strict and definite control. Output is going up, and the industry has been requested to give this matter consideration.

Mr. Solley

Is not my hon. Friend aware that grave allegations are being made of racketeering in the purchase of new cars? In the light of that, will he not reconsider his view as to the desirability of having priority applications in respect of new cars?

Mr. Barnes

That is another question, but it does not alter my decision that I cannot reimpose controls.

Mr. Medlicott

Will the Minister bear in mind the special needs of the rural areas? It is galling to see such masses of cars at sports meetings in big cities when nurses and doctors cannot get them.

Mr. Barnes

I am aware of that, and I hope that this evidence of the feeling of the House will be noted by the motor industry.

Sir W. Wakefield

Will the Minister reconsider this question of priority if the persons concerned join a union?