asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware of persistent rumours to the effect that a system of rationed travelling and travel permits will be introduced in the near future, and that many business firms and private individuals are prevented by such rumours from making arrangements for summer holidays; and, if so, if the Minister will state whether it is intended to control travel on the public transport services, and if so, when.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Public Transport Services.
The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. Travel facilities have already been rationed to the extent that services which were mainly used for pleasure purposes have been stringently curtailed, while essential services have been maintained in so far as fuel supplies allow. The railway companies are limited in the amount of accommodation which may be made available for passenger travel and as this cannot be increased to meet holiday requirements the public have been urged in their own and in the national interest to refrain from all unnecessary travel. It is hoped that further restrictions on travel will not be necessary but I am not in a position to give any assurance that they can be avoided.