HC Deb 02 December 1946 vol 431 cc10-1W
Major Wise

asked the Minister of Supply if he is aware that, at recent auction sales of War Department vehicles, certain lots, after being catalogued, have been with drawn from the sale having been apparently disposed of by private arrangement to the manufacturers of those vehicles who, in turn, have then allocated them to selected dealers; and if he will give instructions that this practice must cease, in order that all potential buyers may have an equal opportunity of purchasing vehicles when once they have been lotted for sale by public auction.

Mr. Wilmot

Yes, Sir. I regret that some vehicles which had already been sold to manufacturers under the trade scheme were included in the catalogue by mistake and were removed before the sale. Normally all vehicles catalogued are offered for sale.

Major Wise

asked the Minister of Supply if he will give instructions that all vehicles catalogued for sale at the forthcoming auction sale at Kirmington, Lincolnshire, must pass through the auction and not be disposed of privately.

Mr. Wilmot

Yes, Sir. This has already been done.