HC Deb 31 January 1940 vol 356 c1172W
Captain Strickland

asked the Secretary for Mines whether, in view of the deplorable position of those engaged in the motor garage industry due to heavy motor taxation and restricted sale of petrol, he can make any statement as to the increased use by appropriate Departments of State of the highly-skilled and technical services of these craftsmen and of the widely-distributed petrol-storage capacity available on their premises?

Mr. Lloyd

Arrangements were made at the outbreak of war for certain garages to be placed at the disposal of A.R.P. and other Civil Defence services. The question of extending these arrangements to other services is a matter in the first instance for the Departments concerned, and I will bring my hon. Friend's suggestion to their notice. The normal storage facilities available for civil purposes are at present adequate without having recourse to this suggestion.