HC Deb 26 February 1948 vol 447 cc2114-5
37. Mr. William Teeling

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware that the ban on hired cars travelling more than 20 miles will prevent foreign visitors being met at their port of entry and motored to their destination; and whether he will consider increasing the distance allowed for all persons arriving in this country by boat or by air during the holiday season.

Mr. Gaitskell

As I stated in reply to the hon. Members for Newbury (Mr. Hurd) and West Edinburgh (Lieut-Commander Hutchison) on 19th February, the matter is under consideration.

Mr. Teeling

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that already the American travel agencies are pressing the point here as to whether it will be worth while for Americans to come over here for motoring purposes at all, and that bookings are being made at the present time for summer holidays in Europe? When can the right hon. Gentleman let us know?

Mr. Gaitskell

This is only a small part of the question of motoring facilities for tourists here. It is a difficult problem, but I have every confidence that we shall find a solution.

Commander Noble

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when the general 20-mile ban is to come into force?

Mr. Gaitskell

On 1st March.