HC Deb 25 March 1948 vol 448 c3345
72. Sir Waldron Smithers

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he will explain the delay of six weeks in replying to a letter dated 29th January, sent by Mr. Broxholme Castle, 26, Wilmar Gardens, West Wickham, Kent, to the London Regional Petroleum Officer; and will he take steps to avoid similar delays in the future.

Mr. Robens

I regret the delay in this case, whch was due primarily to heavy pressure of work in the Regional Petroleum Office. The normal delay in dealing with appeals is now two to three weeks.

Sir W. Smithers

Is this not a typical instance of the inevitable breakdown of administration under State control?

Mr. Robens

No, Sir.