HC Deb 19 January 1943 vol 386 cc71-2W
Mr. Higgs

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware that the voluntary transport service in Birmingham has ceased to function owing to the petrol allowance being discontinued and, in consequence, many men and we men on leave from the Forces are stranded each evening at the leading Birmingham railway stations; and will he sanction further supplies forthwith?

Mr. Simmonds

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware of the hardship during winter nights occasioned to men and women of the Forces by the withdrawal from the Birmingham section of the voluntary transport service of permission to receive petrol coupons for night transport services from railway stations; and whether he will authorise the reinstatement of these services?

Major Lloyd George

As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War and I promised, on 6th October and 10th November, respectively, the discontinuance of the "Get-You-Home Service" has been reviewed. It has been decided, however, that allowances for this service are no longer warranted, in view of the need for petrol economy. This decision applies to the country as a whole and I can find no reason for a departure from it in the case of Birmingham.