§ 72. Mr. FOREMANasked the Prime Minister whether, if the 6s. increase on the price of coal actually comes into force, he will consider the advisability of taking special measures through the municipalities or bodies formed ad hoc to supply coal to the very poor at the cheapest possible rates, since through buying in small quantities at a time they always pay higher prices than the rest of the community?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI have been asked to answer this question. Local authorities have already been encouraged to lay in stocks of coal to meet possible emergencies in the winter, particularly in the interests of small consumers without stocking accommodation, and every assistance is being rendered to them in the matter of the supply of the coal. My right hon. Friend ventures to' express the hope that hon. Members will do all in their power to encourage the local authorities of their constituencies to take vigorous action in this matter.
Lieut.-Colonel THORNEIs the hon. Gentleman aware that since the declaration last week a lot of merchants are refusing to supply small traders with coal?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI should like to be furnished with instances of that.
§ Mr. WATERSONCan householders exceed the amount which is allowed them by the Order in districts where they are working short time?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI had better have notice of that question.
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI must have notice of that question.