HC Deb 16 May 1949 vol 465 c14
27. Mr. Erroll

asked the Minister of Supply what figures he has available to show how much overtime is being worked from time to time by drivers and staff of the official car service.

The Minister of Supply (Mr. G. R. Strauss)

Overtime worked by drivers and staff of the official car service varies considerably in the car pools throughout the country. During the past six months the average overtime worked by each employee was 20 hours a month.

Mr. Erroll

Are not these figures symptomatic of the gross waste of this service, and cannot economies be effected?

28. Mr. Erroll

asked the Minister of Supply how many new cars have been purchased for the official car service since the beginning of the year; and what was their total cost.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

Thirty-seven, at a total cost of £17,064.

Mr. Erroll

As the service is already very well covered by new cars, could not these cars have been exported, instead of being added to this extravagant service?

Mr. Strauss

No, Sir, these cars are essential for the running of a proper service.