§ 5. Sir G. Nabarroasked the Minister of Public Building and Works how many Ministerial cars were in use in April, 1970 and how many drivers were employed; what were the comparable figures on 20th July, 1970; what changes in their number he will make; and what will be the effect on public funds.
§ Mr. KershawIn April, 1970, 63 Ministerial cars were in use, employing 63 drivers. The comparable figures for 20th July, 1970 were 57 cars and 57 drivers. The reduction in cars and drivers represents an annual saving of about £17,000.
§ Sir G. NabarroWill my hon. Friend bear in mind that, based on 10,000 miles a year, it costs 5s. per mile to run a Ministerial car, including a driver? As a Member of the House of Commons gets 6d. per mile on official journeys, will my hon. Friend bear in mind that although all Members of the House of Commons are equal, some evidently are more equal than others?
§ Mr. KershawI always listen to my hon. Friend's advice on all these matters. If we should find ourselves facing a shortage of cars, perhaps my hon. Friend will lend us some of his.
§ Mr. GoldingDo these estimates include the increasing cost of petrol which has been incurred as a result of competition between the petroleum companies?
§ Mr. KershawThese are the latest figures, including all the increases which have taken place in the last six years.
§ Mr. John SilkinWill the hon. Gentleman consider increasing the number of Ministerial cars so that those of his right hon. and hon. Friends who appear to have difficulty in arriving in time for Questions or Adjournment debates can be better accommodated?