§ Sir J. LONSDALEasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that 1075W the licences issued by the Petrol Control Committee to veterinary surgeons in Ireland do not in all cases give them the full amount of their demands up to a maximum of 50 gallons per month, and that some veterinary surgeons whose normal requirements for professional purposes alone at this time of the year are 50 gallons per week are being restricted to 30 gallons per month; and if veterinary surgeons who have been limited to a quantity below the maximum of 50 gallons per month will be entitled to receive additional licences to enable them to obtain the maximum allowed to their class?
Mr. HARCOURTIf the hon. Baronet will furnish me with particulars of any cases which he may have in mind I will see that they are considered.
§ Mr. MacVEAGHasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that clergymen in rural parishes in Great Britain and Ireland who use motor cycles for their parochial work are experiencing much difficulty in obtaining an adequate supply of petrol; and whether he will direct that special consideration be given to the applications of clergymen and doctors?
Mr. HARCOURTIt has been necessary to restrict generally the supply of petrol, and I fear that it would not be practicable to give preferential treatment to clergymen. The special position of doctors has been recognised and licences for a larger allowance are given to them than to other classes.
§ Mr. CAREWasked whether any restrictions are now being placed on the use of petrol for oil engines by agriculturists and also for lighting purposes by the public; and, if so, to what extent?
Mr. HARCOURTIt is found necessary at present to restrict licences for supplies in these cases to 60 per cent, of the requirements.