asked the Minister of War Transport if he will give particulars of the number of county councils and other local authorities, who pay roadmen employed by them fortnightly by cheque; and whether he will arrange with such authorities to discontinue this practice.

Thirty-eight county councils in England and Wales have been authorised to pay the wages of roadmen by cheque. Until the staff position of county councils eases considerably, I do not think that the present authority can be withdrawn.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Kent County Council, so far back as June, I942, indicated to the National Council for County Council Roadmen that they were prepared to pay wages in cash if the necessary petrol could be made available?

If the hon. Member will draw my attention to any particular point, I will have it considered.

Could the right hon. Gentleman say who authorised these authorities to make payment by cheque, and. how long he has had authority to alter the law, which declares that payment by cheque is not legal tender?

I am afraid I cannot answer that offhand. If my hon. Friend will put the Question down, I will give him the necessary information.