The Government's Thanks

22nd September 1950, Page 59

22nd September 1950

Page 59

Page 59, 22nd September 1950 — The Government's Thanks

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By the Rt. Hon. G. R. Strauss, M.P., Minister of Supply

TAM glad of this opportunity to send a message to the commercial -11motor industry. on the occasion of the Commercial Motor Exhibition. The Government attach great importance to the exhibition, and we especially welcome the many buyers from overseas who will see here the finest and most advanced vehicles of their kind in the world.

Since the war the industry has made remarkable progress in spite of difficulties in the supply of essential materials. Output has risen from 146,000 vehicles in 1946 to the present annual rate of 268,000. This compares with a total production of just under 104,000 in 1938.

The motor industry as a whole plays a vital part in the Nation's export drive, .accounting for more than 10 per cent. of the total exports. The commercial vehicle manufacturers' contribution is equally striking ; more than 10 times as many vehicles are exported now than in 1938. In the first half of 1950 alone, 73,000 vehicles worth over £30m. were exported. This was more than half the total output.

Although it is still unfortunately necessary to restrict the supply of vehicles to the home market, it has been supplied at a higher rate than before the war. This point might well be overlooked. In 1938, home buyers took 90,000 vehicles, whereas in each of the past four years the figure has been over 100,000.

I congratulate all in the industry on their achievements and on their engineering skill. I offer my best Wishes 'for the success of the Exhibition, and on behalf of the Government I thank all those who have done so much to make it possible.