THE EARL OF MANSFIELDasked His Majesty's Government, whether they will state the total number of motor cars now owned by the National Coal Board, and the total cost of such cars; how many are over 14 horse-power, and how many over 20 horse-power; how many were bought second-hand; how many cost over £1,000, £1,500 and £2,000 each, new or second-hand. Whether it is correct that the National Coal Board proposes to acquire the whole output of certain motor manufacturers for some time to come; and, if so, which are the firms concerned, and how many cars are involved.
§ LORD CHORLEYHis Majesty's Government regard this as a matter for the National Coal Board and I have No 1nformation beyond that contained in an announcement on this subject which the Board issued on November 7. I am sending a copy of this to the noble Earl for his information.
834WA[Following is the announcement referred to:
In view of the current interest in the number of motor cars in the coal industry, the National Coal Board have issued the following statement:Prior to nationalization a great many of the officials in the coal industry, who owned motor cars, used them for business purposes and claimed an allowance from the colliery companies. The Board have continued this convenient arrangement, and the majority of vehicles now used in the day-to-day management of the industry are privately ownedA large number of motor cars, however, were owned by colliery companies and have passed to the ownership of the Board, in all about 520. Most of these cars were of pre-1939 vintage, and some dated back to 1929. In accordance with commercial practice the Board have initiated a programme for the regular replacement of old vehicles. This can only be done as supplies permit, for the Board have no official priority. In addition, at the prices currently ruling, it is good business to sell second-hand cars and to buy new ones.So far the Board have secured delivery of 200 new cars in replacement of old ones or to meet new needs.]