§ 12. Mr. Reader Harrisasked the Postmaster-General what capital or other sum has been expended on the installation of tyre remoulding plant since 1st January, 1950, for remoulding the tyres of General Post Office vehicles; what further sums he intends to spend on remoulding plant; and whether he is satisfied that the expenditure is justified in view of the remoulding facilities already available at competitive prices by private firms.
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsSince 1st January, 1950, £10,450 has been expended on plant for remoulding certain sizes of tyre for Post Office vehicles. Another £1,000 may be spent this year. The whole of its capital cost will be saved in the first year of working.
§ Mr. HarrisIs the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that this decision follows the instruction of the Chancellor of the Exchequer that capital shall not be used on matters of this sort?
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsAs I am saving a substantial sum of money I thought we could meet the expenditure on the work.
§ Mr. R. V. GrimstonCan the right hon. Gentleman say how many of these remoulding plants are being set up by the Post Office?
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsOnly one.
§ Mr. Harry WallaceCould my right hon. Friend say how much time and money will be saved by the installation of this plant and whether there is any difference in the competitive prices, if such prices have been obtained?
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsIt would be better if we waited to see the results of the first year's working.