§ 8. Mr. Peter Thorneycroftasked the Minister of Supply how many motor cars were supplied to British European Airways by way of special priority in December, 1949; and what was the reason for this special treatment.
§ Mr. G. R. StraussSpecial arrangements were made for the supply of 100 cars to British European Airways. Ninety have so far been delivered. The purpose was to avoid the danger of fatigue in aircrews who have been unable to find accommodation near the airport and have to travel long distances to their place of duty. This arrangement also effects a considerable saving in the Corporation's road transport costs.
§ Mr. ThorneycroftWhy was this very special and particular privilege to acquire motor cars, which is denied to other people, extended to this nationalised corporation? Is not Northolt surrounded by bus stations and public transport and are not there vast areas in the country which are far worse served than that?
§ Mr. StraussI think I gave the reason in my reply. The special reason is that there are a number of pilots, navigators and others who cannot live close to Northolt. They have to be there at odd times, both day and night, and is essential that they should have proper transport.
§ Mr. ErrollWill the Minister extend similar privileges to private charter companies on request?
§ Mr. StraussIt is not proposed to extend this privilege to anybody or to supply any further cars.
§ Mr. SpeakerThis is an ordinary Question and it has been pointed out that to an ordinary Question two supplementary questions are quite enough. I saw at least half a dozen hon. Members rise. We shall never get through half the Questions on the Order Paper if we have so many supplementaries.
§ Mr. ThorneycroftIn view of the wholly unsatisfactory nature of the Minister's reply, I beg to give notice the I propose to raise this matter again on the Adjournment.