§ 7. Mr. SITCHasked the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been called to a meeting in Birmingham on the 11th instant of the Midland Association of Gas Engineers and Managers, at which apprehension was expressed as to the possible results of the shortage of gas coal in many Midland towns; that in some instances reserve stocks are only sufficient for two or three days and that in the majority of towns less than one week's supply was available; and whether, in view of the great dependence of the public on gas, especially for purposes of heating and power, he will take steps to enable the towns affected to replenish their reserve stocks without delay, thereby avoiding the threatened stoppage of businesses and also hardship to private consumers of gas light and heat?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Burslem (Mr. Finney) on the 26th March.
§ Mr. SHORTMay I ask the hon. Gentleman whether anything has been done to alleviate the distress in Birmingham?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI have only to say that the Coal Controller has undertaken to deal with it as best he can.