§ 45. Mr. G. R. Straussasked the Prime Minister which Minister will be responsible for the new larger London car pool; and why cars from this pool will not be available for Ministers to visit establishments for which they are responsible beyond seven miles from the Palace of Westminster.
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Winston Churchill)My right hon. Friend the Minister of Supply is responsible for the operation of the official car service. The second part of the right hon. Gentleman's Question seems to be based on a misapprehension of the position, since cars from the pool will be available for the purpose indicated.
§ Mr. StraussI am glad to hear that reply, because the Prime Minister said categorically, in his answer recently, that official cars would be available for Ministers only for journeys within seven miles of Westminster. [HON. MEMBERS: "No."] I gather that was a mistake.
§ The Prime MinisterIt was no mistake, but it was always contemplated that Ministers can draw cars from the pool for official purposes.