§ Mr. GROVESasked the President of the Board of Trade what regulations are enforced governing the sale and price of coke and coalite in the streets; and whether he is aware that coalite is at present being retailed at 8d. per 14 lbs. in bags and that hundredweights are not available.
§ Mr. RUNCIMANBy-laws regulating the sale of coke and coalite are generally in operation in the areas of such local authorities as have obtained powers by local legislation to regulate the sale of such fuels. These by-laws usually prescribe the quantities in which the fuels shall be sold and in some cases stipulate that the maximum price shall be exhibited. As regards the second part of the question I am informed that the general practice in London is for coal merchants to sell coalite from vans by the cwt., in the same way as coal.
§ Mr. GROVESMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether his reply means that in areas where the local authorities have not applied for the powers to which he refers, these sellers of coalite can charge what prices they like and his Department have no power to interfere?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI would not like to say that, but it certainly would appear to be advisable for the local authority to have by-laws on the subject.