§ 48. Dr. Segalasked the Minister of Defence when he will undertake to institute a common transport pool for the three Defence Services in order to economise in manpower, vehicles and fuel.
§ Mr. AlexanderLong distance haulage is already centralised to a large extent by the Services' use of the Civilian Road Haulage organisation. I am doubtful, however, whether the administrative disadvantages involved in setting up a general transport pool for the Services would be sufficiently offset by possible economies.
§ Dr. SegalCould not the right hon. Gentleman attempt to do something to avoid in peacetime some of the anomalies which occurred during the war, such as, for example, that a three-ton lorry was used to convey a latchkey, or that a 64-ft. trailer was used to convey a bottle of typhoid vaccine?
§ Mr. AlexanderCertainly. Efforts in that direction are being made all the time.
§ Mr. SwinglerCan my right hon. Friend say whether those questions are being examined by the Manpower Economy Committee set up in the Service Departments, and whether the report they make on the general question will be placed before this House?
§ Mr. AlexanderI would like to have notice of that question.