§ Sir J. Barlowasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the shortage of motor-cars and lorries in Malaya which is handicapping the re-occupation of rubber estates and preventing the collection of rubber; and what steps he is taking to supply the deficiency.
§ Mr. LawsonI am well aware of the shortage of motor vehicles in Malaya. Although the supply of vehicles to the rubber industry is not my responsibility, everything possible is being done to mitigate the effects of the shortage by supplying military vehicles from the limited stocks available on the spot, and by facilitating the import of civilian vehicles from this country.