33. Mr. Shawerossasked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that the efforts of the motor industry to give preference in the delivery of motor cars required by doctors have proved ineffective and that many doctors urgently in need of motor cars for their professional duties are unable to obtain them; and if he will consider, with the industry, enforcing a scheme of covenants similar to the scheme prohibiting resale of motor cars within 12 months, whereby motor dealers are obliged to give priority of delivery to such doctors.
§ Mr. WilmotNo, Sir. The motor in- dustry is honouring its undertaking to give preference to the delivery of cars required by doctors, while having regard to the claims of the other priority users, nurses and midwives.
Mr. ShawcrossWhile I fully appreciate that the motor industry is honouring its undertakings, may I ask if my right hon. Friend is aware that the supply of motor cars for doctors comes from the dealers and not from the manufacturers, and would he not arrange with the manufacturers that dealers enter into covenants with manufacturers to give priority to doctors who are in need of cars?
§ Mr. WilmotI have not had any complaints about this, but in view of what my hon. Friend says, I will certainly take it up with the industry.
§ Mr. J. H. HareIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the same acute shortage applies to district nurses as well as country doctors, and will he also take them into consideration?
§ Mr. WilmotYes, Sir, but there are not enough to go round. That is the trouble.
§ Mr. BowenWill the right hon. Gentleman also take into account the position of veterinary surgeons in remote rural areas?
Mr. ShawcrossIs my right hon. Friend aware that in regard to midwives and district nurses, there is a scheme in force between the Ministry of Health and the industry which works very well, but that there is no such scheme for the doctors?