HC Deb 15 March 1920 vol 126 cc1770-1
Colonel BURN

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the cost of sea-borne Durham coal delivered at Torquay is 65s. per ton as compared with 45s. for rail-borne coal; and will he take steps to remove this embargo, which has to be met by consumers of gas, electricity, and coal, &c., by reverting to transport by rail?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I am aware of the circumstances to which my hon. and gallant Friend calls attention, but I regret that it is not possible at present to alter the arrangements under which, in order to relieve the congestion on the railways, a considerable quantity of coal must be conveyed by sea.

Colonel BURN

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there are many complaints not only about shortage of quantity, but also of quality, and that the coal they are receiving is not fit for anything?

Mr. SPEAKER

That raises another topic.

Mr. HOUSTON

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the price of bunker coal at Devonshire ports is £7 6s. 6d. per ton?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I know it is very high.