MR. DOYLEasked the Minister of Transport whether it is his intention to use the many Army and Navy lorries still in possession of the Government for the transport of goods under the direct control of his Department in order to relieve the congested railways or whether he prefers to let such lorries out by contract to big firms; and, in the latter event, if he will give the terms of such contract?
Sir RHYS WILLIAMSThe hon. Member is no doubt aware of the emergency measure under which Government-owned motor lorries have been placed at 259W the disposal of local committees of certain ports for the purpose of relieving congestion at those ports and on the railways. Under this arrangement haulage contractors may obtain the use of Government lorries on hire, subject to the approval of the local committees. The rates of hire vary in different localities, but will generally conform to the rates of hire prevailing in each district. Except under this arrangement, it is not the intention of the Ministry of Transport to let out Government-owned lorries to haulage contractors. Surplus Government lorries can be purchased from the Disposal Board. The lorries referred to are additional to the large number previously hired to the railway companies by the Ministry of Munitions, which are still at work.