HC Deb 07 November 1939 vol 353 cc64-5W
Captain Strickland

asked the Secretary of State for War at what rates payment is made for hire of road motor goods-vehicles requisitioned by his Department; what are the periods of payment; and to what date full payment has already been made?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

No vehicles have been requisitioned for hire by the War Department.

Captain Strickland

asked the Secretary of State for War at what rates payment is made for hire of road motor goods-vehicles by his Department; what are the periods of payment; and to what date full payment has already been issued?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

Hiring of road transport vehicles is arranged by Army Commands at rates agreed with each individual contractor. Agreements provide for bills to be paid monthly or on completion of the service, if this is of shorter duration. Instructions have been issued that in cases where it has been impracticable to arrive at agreed rates, substantial advances should be made pending final settlement. In cases where rates cannot be agreed, provision is made for recourse to arbitration.

The answer to the last part of the question could not be given without a large number of separate inquiries.