HC Deb 10 December 1956 vol 562 cc25-6
32. Miss Burton

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he is aware of the concern felt by management in Coventry that key workers will have difficulty in getting to and from their work because of the shortage of petrol; and whether petrol will therefore be made available for this essential purpose.

Mr. Aubrey Jones

The basic ration should suffice for most people who cannot get to work by public transport, but I am considering what further assistance can be given to firms whose production would be adversely affected by inability of their workers to get to work.

Miss Burton

Might I ask the Minister if he is aware that Standard Motor Company, which is in my constituency, has more than 4,000 workers going to work each day by car? This does not mean that each owns a car, but some travel with others who do. Is he further aware that the regional fuel office has said that there can be no special issue and the basic allowance must suffice? In view of what he has said, might I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he is aware that the presence of large numbers of workers will put a severe strain on public transport and that factory production will, in fact, be disrupted? Will he look at the matter again as regards Coventry?

Mr. Jones

I am in touch with the British Employers' Confederation on this, and in these consultations I shall certainly bear in mind the plight of the Standard Motor Company.

Sir H. Roper

Is my right hon. Friend aware that great concern is felt by many people residing in the countryside, in my very rural constituency, who will be unable to travel to their work? Has he yet given attention to the case of an engineering firm at Wadebridge which is threatened with shut-down because its key men live at such a distance?

Mr. Speaker

The Question is about Coventry. I do not see how we can bring in every constituency.

42. Mr. Hamilton

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what special allocations of petrol he intends to allow in the contesting of parliamentary by-elections now pending.

Mr. Aubrey Jones

Appropriate arrangements are being made in consultation with the political parties.

Mr. Hamilton

Will the Minister give an assurance that nothing will be done in this respect to thwart the expression of public opinion, and would he consider contacting the Conservative Central Office to arrange for the issue of a leaflet explaining why there is a shortage?

Forward to