HC Deb 13 March 1947 vol 434 cc1478-9
18. Mr. Keeling

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether in order to increase the wealth of this country by attracting visitors from overseas, he will give an increased allowance of petrol to persons bringing their own motor-cars on visits to the United Kingdom.

Mr. Shinwell

However desirable it may be to encourage foreign tourists to come to this country, I am at present unable to agree that the petrol restrictions should be relaxed so as to allow them more petrol than is available to our own motorists for like purposes.

Mr. Keeling

Does the Minister deny that there would be a net gain of dollars from this arrangement, and would not that be important?

Mr. Shinwell

I imagine that that is hypothetical. [HON. MEMBERS: "No."] I imagine so. In any event, I cannot provide privileges for foreign tourists which I deny to our people at home.

Squadron-Leader Sir Gifford Fox

Is the Minister aware that the French Government give 130 gallons for three months to tourists going there?

Mr. Shinwell

I am afraid that the hon. and gallant Member and other hon. Members who have asked questions about the French system are ill-informed. The position over there is much less satisfactory than in this country.

Sir G. Fox

But they do give 130 gallons.