HC Deb 17 December 1942 vol 385 cc2108-9W
Colonel Carver

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the shortage of electric torch and cycle batteries; and whether he will take steps to see that those who are obliged to travel at night have preferential treatment?

Mr. Dalton

There are fewer No. 8 torch batteries this winter than last owing to heavy Service requirements for batteries, but they are still being made in very large numbers. I am not aware of a shortage of other types of torch batteries, supplies of which have been increased to compensate for the decline in output of the No. 8 size. Steps have been taken which should lead to a substantial and early increase in supplies of cycle lamp batteries to a level adequate to meet the needs of all those who have to travel at night.

Mr. Lipson

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will increase the supply of batteries for bicycle lamps in the Cheltenham area?

Mr. Dalton

Steps have already been taken to increase supplies of bicycle lamp batteries in the Cheltenham area.