HC Deb 02 December 1941 vol 376 c1017W
Captain Strickland

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the use of coal-gas, as an alternative fuel for motor-vehicles, is being impeded by the refusal of the Board of Trade to issue coupons for fabric for the manufacture of gas-bags; and can he make any statement about the matter?

Sir A. Duncan

In view of the limited amount of cotton available for civilian purposes, I do not think it desirable to give any special facilities to allow firms to obtain cotton fabric for making gas-bags for private motor cars. Under the rationing scheme local authorities, and firms making these bags for them, can obtain fabric without coupons, and I am also prepared to allow the supply of this fabric without coupons to firms who can furnish evidence that they are making gas-bags for other essential transport services.