§ 57. Mr. Joynson-Hicksasked the Minister of Supply how many motor cars of his Department's car service were used to transport delegates to the International Trade Conference last month at Annecy; what was the cost to the taxpayer; and why the delegates did not use public transport.
§ Mr. G. R. StraussNine cars and two utility vans were sent to Annecy for the use of United Kingdom and Commonwealth delegates attending the Conference. The estimated cost of these services during June 1949, is £1,685, of which we expect to recover about £850. Public transport at Annecy is limited, but was used whenever practicable.
§ Mr. Joynson-HicksIs not this a most extraordinary use to which to put the taxpayers' money; and cannot the right hon. Gentleman arrange for some form of local conveyances instead of sending cars from here to Annecy for this delegation?
§ Mr. StraussIt was because local conveyances were scarce and very expensive that it was thought desirable to provide these cars, not so much for the United Kingdom representatives only as for the Commonwealth representatives, too.
§ Colonel Gomme-DuncanFrom whom is this £850 expected to be recovered?
§ Mr. StraussFrom various Commonwealth Governments.