§ 2. Mr. HALLASasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the coal census of 1919 showed that the requirement of household coal in Birmingham averaged 22,000 tons a week; that an average of less than 16,000 tons has been received under the rationing scheme; that hardship is being suffered by many families through this shortage; and whether he can afford any relief?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Bridgeman)The question of shortage of supplies of household coal to Birmingham is receiving the close attention of the Coal Mines Department. Arrangements have recently been made for an additional 4,500 tons of coal per week to be provided for the Midland Division, and Birmingham will receive a large proportion of this additional coal.