HC Deb 19 November 1947 vol 444 cc1123-4
16. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies in which colonies dependencies and mandated territories the basic petrol ration has been abolished.

Mr. Creech Jones

Colonial Governments have been informed of the steps taken in the United Kingdom to reduce petrol consumption with a view to saving dollars, and have been asked to take similar measures, as far as possible, with the object of reducing local consumption by 10 per cent. So far as I am aware, all Governments concerned are taking steps to this end, and some are actually making greater savings.

Sir T. Moore

I gather, from the right hon. Gentleman's reply, that there is to be a reduction of 10 per cent. How does that compare with the total abolition of the basic petrol ration here? Why should there be this discrimination against the people of Britain?

Mr. Creech Jones

It is not a matter of discrimination against the people of Britain; it is a question of trying to effect economies in the use of petrol in the Colonies.

Sir T. Moore

As we have been given so little information, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment.