§ 4. Mr. NEWBOULDasked the President of the Board of Trade what was the weekly amount of coal exported since 31st July, the average price charged, and the profit accruing thereon?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Bridgeman)Statistics of the quantity and value of coal exported are only compiled monthly and are published in the Accounts relating to Trade and Navigation of the United Kingdom. The average weekly amount of coal exported during August and September, 1919, was 557,000 tons, the average f.o.b. price being £2 14s. 9d. per ton. No later figures are yet available. There is no available information as to the profits accruing in respect of coal exported since 31st July, 1919.
§ Mr. HOUSTONIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the price of bunker coal in Liverpool is £6 per ton, and that the profit made on the export of coal has been swallowed up in supplying home manufacturers and consumers at 35s. per ton?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI am quite aware that the price is very high at Liverpool, and it is receiving consideration.
§ Mr. BILLINGIs the hon. Gentleman aware that we anticipate a coal shortage during the winter months? Does he think it right that coal should be exported to foreign countries, and that the working classes in this country should freeze in the coming winter?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANWe are taking account of both the considerations raised by the two hon. Members.
§ Mr. HOUSTONIs the hon. Gentleman aware that if coal is not exported the price of food in this country will be much greater?