HC Deb 08 April 1948 vol 449 cc356-7
56. Sir J. Mellor

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether the permitted use of official motor cars for unofficial journeys, upon payment, by Ministers of Cabinet rank is conditional upon a licence being obtained under the Motor Fuel (Car Hire) Order, S.I., 1948, No. 386, if a car is to be used more than 20 miles from its base.

Mr. Glenvil Hall

No, Sir; the use of official cars by Ministers of Cabinet rank is within the permitted purposes set out in paragraph 2 of the Order.

Sir J. Mellor

Will the right hon. Gentleman explain how such use is a necessary purpose in connection with the hirer's professional business?

Mr. Glenvil Hall

That question was answered earlier in reply to the hon. Gentleman the Member for Orpington (Sir W. Smithers). I would refer the hon. Baronet to that reply.

Lieut.-Commander Braithwaite

Does that mean that these official limousines can be used by Ministers for non-official journeys to their hearts' content?