§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what type of car is supplied to former Prime Ministers; what would be the savings to the Exchequer if they were charged for this; and whether he will consider charging former Prime Ministers the full economic costs of the use of such cars.
§ Mr. Geoffrey FinsbergThese cars are at present provided for security reasons and it would be inappropriate to charge the full economic cost or give details of the types of car. Any use for private or party purposes is charged for. The net savings to the Exchequer from with-462W drawal would be of the order of £10,000 a year per car.
§ Mr. John Pattenasked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many Ford motor cars are used by Ministers at present; and what type they are.
§ Mr. Geoffrey FinsbergNone are allocated to particular Ministers. A general pool of some 30 Cortinas 1600 GL is used both by Ministers and officials as need arises.
§ Mr. John Pattenasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if any motor cars of foreign manufacture are used by Ministers at present; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Geoffrey FinsbergNo such cars are used in the Government car service.