HC Deb 20 January 1948 vol 446 cc22-3
43. Mr. Stokes

asked the Secretary of State for War how many of the vehicles parked on the Hamburg-Bremen Autobahn have been deprived of one or all their wheels; and how many, wheeled vehicles there are altogether in that park with or without wheels.

Mr. Shinwell

No records are available of the number of vehicles on this autobahn with or without wheels, respectively. The total number of vehicles at present held in the park is 9,650.

Mr. Stokes

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I visited the park recently and found that about 50 per cent, of the vehicles are without wheels? What does he propose to do about it?

Mr. Shinwell

If my hon. Friend, during his visit to the autobahn, detected how many wheels were absent, he has got the information.

Mr. Stokes

Yes, but is my right hon. Friend aware that I have raised this matter before, and that literally millions of pounds worth of stuff is going to waste there because nothing is done? When does he propose to do anything about it?

Mr. Shinwell

I have made very careful inquiries into these allegations about waste, and I think they are grossly, exaggerated.

Mr. M. Lindsay

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there has been no change in the situation for two years now, to my certain knowledge?

Mr. Shinwell

All I can say to the hon. Gentleman is that his knowledge is not certain.

Mr. Stokes

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment.