§ 58. Mr. Medlicottasked the Minister of Fuel and Power to what extent the decision to withdraw the basic petrol ration is due to a shortage of tankers to bring fuel oil into this country.
§ Mr. GaitskellThe decision to withdraw the basic petrol ration was taken in order to conserve dollars, and not because of shortage of tankers, which is nevertheless serious at the present time.
§ Mr. Boyd-Carpenterasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he will consider making the necessary amendments in S. R. & 0., 2021 of 1947 so as to permit people who still retain petrol acquired in respect of basic ration to use this petrol during Christmas week.
§ Mr. GaitskellI assume the hon. Member is referring to S.R. & 0. 2058 of 1947. As I have said in reply to previous Questions on this subject, the time limit for the use of basic ration petrol was fixed after full consideration and I am afraid that I could not agree to extend it.