HC Deb 13 November 1947 vol 444 cc94-5W
34. Sir G. Fox

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what was the number of petrol applications, R (M. S.)1 forms, submitted in the months of December, 1939, December, 1946 and September, 1947; and the total number of civil servants employed in the divisional petroleum offices on those dates respectively.

Mr. Gaitskell

Particulars of the number of applications in respect of private cars R (M.S.)1 Forms received in regional petroleum offices in the month of December, 1939 are not available. On the average of the period 23rd November, 1939. to 31st January, 1940, the number dealt with was probably of the order of 360,000 a month. The number dealt with in December, 1946, was approximately 135,000 and in September, 1947, approximately 375,000. As regards the second part of the Question, the number of staff employed at the end of the various months were: December 1939, 1,709; December, 1946, 1,735; September, 1947, 1,489.

59. Mr. Braddock

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if, in view of the abolition of the basic petrol ration, he will take the necessary steps to withdraw completely the special allowance of petrol made to flying clubs.

Mr. Gaitskell

No.

74. Mr. Blackburn

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware that allocations of petrol are still being continued to bookmakers in their business capacity; and whether he will take immediate steps to abolish the issue of petrol coupons to bookmakers or anyone engaged in gambling businesses.

Mr. Gaitskell

The answer to the first part of the Question is "Yes," and to the second part "No."

Mr. Marlowe

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power why supplementary coupons, for petrol have been refused to Mr. A. J. Marks, of 5, Park Avenue, Hove, in view of the fact that Mr. Marks is engaged in travelling the country for the purpose of inspecting houses suitable for conversion to flats intended for occupation by middle-income groups; and whether an allowance can now be made since this work is a contribution to the housing problem.

Mr. Gaitskell

I am having inquiries made into the case and I will communicate with the hon. and learned Member as soon as possible.

Mr. Leslie

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what redress or appeal has a motor cyclist who has been refused a petrol allowance by a regional officer, when such allowance is necessary for the worker to enable him to reach his place of employment owing to distance and inadequate bus service.

Mr. Gaitskell

The applicant may ask the regional petroleum officer to reconsider the matter and in appropriate cases to refer the appeal to higher authority.