§ 3. Mr. Beswickasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is the present annual consumption of petrol in the British zone of Germany; and on what basis it is allocated.
§ Mr. MayhewGerman civil consumption was 210,000 tons in 1946; 261,000 tons in 1947 and is estimated at 306,000 tons in 1948. Requirements are estimated and imported by military Government for the bizonal area on the basis of known past performance and the expected needs of an expanding industry. The detailed allocation of petrol to users is a German responsibility.
§ Mr. BeswickDo I understand that the only petrol allocated is for business purposes? If so, would my hon. Friend look into the fact that so much business seems to be transacted at the week-end?
§ Mr. MayhewThere is a regulation about the use of petrol at week-ends, but my right hon. Friend is not satisfied on this point and an inquiry is being held to decide in what way the regulations need strengthening.
§ Air-Commodore HarveyDoes the hon. Gentleman realise that there is an impression that the average German motorist is better off than the British motorist?
§ Mr. MayhewThat is not true, but, nevertheless, an inquiry is being held.
§ Mr. Granville SharpIs the recent increase in black market transactions in Germany linked up with the increasing allocation of petrol?
§ Mr. MayhewI should need notice of that question.