§ 21. Mr. Keelingasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the new allowance of petrol to tourists from overseas to cover the return journey from the port of landing to the furthest destination is, though additional to the basic ration, quite inadequate for the tours suggested in the tourist propaganda widely circulated abroad and compares unfavourably with the allowance obtainable in France; and whether he will increase the allowance order to attract more dollars to this country.
§ Sir S. CrippsDue weight was given to the considerations mentioned by the, hon. Member before the decision was made to make additional petrol available to overseas tourists. I regret that it is not possible to arrange for any increase in the allowance this season.
§ Mr. KeelingWould the right hon. and learned Gentleman say whether this very small allowance was fixed on the advice of the Travel Association or against its advice?
§ Sir S. CrippsI cannot recollect what advice it gave, but everybody's opinion was canvassed on this matter, including the Automobile Association and others.
§ 22. Mr. Keelingasked the President of the Board of Trade whether any allowance of petrol is made to tourists from overseas who themselves drive hired motor cars.
§ Sir S. CrippsNo allowance of petrol is made to overseas tourists for this purpose. Allowances are, however, granted to firms who hire out self-drive cars, and overseas visitors can of course take advantage of this service.
§ Mr. KeelingDoes that really deal with the point that tourists from overseas ought to have petrol in order to attract more dollars to this country?
§ Sir S. CrippsThat is a matter which has been dealt with in a reply to a previous Question.