HC Deb 11 November 1948 vol 457 cc1724-5
62. John Morrison

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power how many officers of his Department and regional offices disposing of applications for supplementary petrol coupons are minor Civil Service clerks.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Fuel and Power (Mr. Robens)

First applications for supplementary petrol allowances are invariably checked by experienced staff. Any case presenting difficulty is referred to special assessors and then, if required, to the Regional Petroleum Officer. The number of clerical officers who deal with routine renewal applications is about 500 in the 14 regional petroleum offices throughout the country, depending, of course, on the weight of business at any particular time.

Mr. Morrison

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the increasing number of complaints by people applying for petrol for essential purposes? Will he look into the matter?

Mr. Robens

We are continually looking into the question of petrol supplies. By and large, no very long time elapses between the application and the issue of coupons.

Mr. Skeffington-Lodge

Is my hon. Friend also aware that some of us have been very much impressed by the courtesy and helpfulness of his regional petroleum officers?