HC Deb 31 July 1916 vol 84 cc2089-90W
Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

asked the Secretary to the Admiralty how many tank steamers, and of what capacity, are now chartered or used by the Admiralty; and whether some of them could be released for the further import of petrol for this country?

Dr. MACNAMARA

I am afraid I cannot undertake to give the particulars asked for by my hon. Friend, and as regards his question as to whether some of the tank steamers now engaged for Service purposes can be released for commercial work, I can hold out no prospect that this will be possible.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, having regard to the admitted shortage of petrol, he will issue the most stringent orders prohibiting waste of petrol in any form and reducing, as far as possible, the amount of unnecessary motor driving by officers of his Department in journeys which they might equally well take by train?

Mr. FORSTER

The most stringent orders prohibiting the waste of petrol have already been issued. The improper use of motor cars has been prohibited, and their use where railway facilities exist has been restricted.