§ 30. Squadron-Leader Donnerasked the Minister of War Transport when the free market in motor cars will be re-established; what are the conditions restricting the use and resale in respect of motor cars bought under permit; and at what date these restrictions will cease to apply.
§ Mr. BarnesExcept for reconditioned surplus Government motor cars, there have been no restrictions on the acquisition or disposal of motor cars since the beginning of this year. The manufacturers undertook, in respect of each model, not to supply other would-be purchasers until they had cleared any outstanding licences issued by my Department before the scheme was closed down.
§ Squadron-Leader DonnerWould the Minister answer the second part of the Question?
§ Mr. BarnesThe restriction ceased to operate on 1st January.
§ Squadron-Leader DonnerDoes that apply to motor cars bought under permit?
§ Mr. BarnesCars that were bought under permit were bought under licences from my Department, and the issue of licences for the purchase of cars ceased on 1st January.
§ Wing-Commander HulbertDoes that mean that cars bought under permit can now be sold by the owners without restriction?
§ Mr. BarnesWhen a car was bought under permit, it became the personal property of the owner, and I accept no further responsibility.
§ Captain MarsdenI bought a car under permit last year on the assurance that I would not sell it for 12 months. Should I be at liberty to sell it now?
§ Mr. BarnesI would like to look into the conditions under which the hon. and gallant Gentleman obtained it.