§ 53. Sir John Mellorasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what was the sterling value of the total amount of foreign currency allowed to British travellers for the running expenses of their motor cars while used abroad during the year ended 30th September, 1947; what was the expenditure in sterling by British travellers during the same period upon the purchase in the United Kingdom of foreign railway and road transport tickets; and from what source foreign exchange was provided for the ultimate payment for such tickets.
§ Sir S. CrippsThe information asked for in the first and second parts of the Question is not available. The exchange needed for the ultimate payment for any foreign railway and road transport tickets paid for by British travellers in sterling was provided from our general foreign exchange resources.
§ Sir J. MellorBut would not foreign exchange be saved by restoring the car allowance?
§ Sir S. CrippsNo, Sir.
§ Sir J. MellorCannot the right hon. and learned Gentleman give some explanation of why? It is extraordinary.