HC Deb 05 November 1947 vol 443 cc1830-1
49. Mr. Bing

asked the Minister of Defence the amount of petroleum products consumed by the Armed Forces of the Crown during the year ending 30th June, 1947; and whether he will specify the amount of motor spirit, aviation spirit, lubricating oil, gas oil, fuel oil and diesel oil, and kerosene included in the total.

Mr. Alexander

The total is about four million tons, made up of 1,065,000 tons of motor spirit, 304,000 tons of aviation spirit, 72,000 tons of lubricating oil, 2,507,000 tons of gas, fuel and diesel oil, and 62,000 tons of kerosene.

Mr. Bing

Can my right hon. Friend say what is the dollar expenditure involved in this?

Mr. Alexander

I was not asked that question, but I will send the desired information to my hon. Friend.

Sir Wavell Wakefield

Could the Minister give instructions that, in order to conserve petrol and oil, all vehicles should strictly observe the speed limit restrictions throughout the country?

Mr. Alexander

That sounds reasonable to me.

Mr. Dumpleton

Can my right hon. Friend say what saving on the four million tons' consumption it is estimated will be made for the ensuing 12 months from 30th June, 1947?

Mr. Alexander

That will be dealt with in connection with the Estimates.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

Could the Minister say what part of this considerable sum is used at all.

Mr. Alexander

Yes, Sir, upon notice.