HC Deb 05 June 1934 vol 290 cc744-5
34. Mr. MALLALIEU

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he will give details in regard to the figure of 600,000 tons of coal which have been consumed as a result of the duty on heavy hydrocarbon oils, showing the amounts due to transfers from oil to coal, coke, gas, electricity, and creosote, respectively; and how much he estimates will be similarly transferred in the current year?

Mr. E. BROWN

The details of the estimated figure of over 600,000 tons per annum given by the Coal Utilisation Council, and quoted in my answer of 17th May, are as follow in tons per annum in terms of coal:

Coal … … 316,000
Coke … … 83,000
Electricity … … 7,000
Gas … … 99,000
Coal oil … … 103,000
Total … … 608,000
As regards the second part of the question, I am not able to supply an estimate of future conversions although, from the information given to me by the Coal Utilisation Council, it appears that they are likely to represent a substantial quantity of coal.

Mr. MALLALIEU

Does not the hon. Gentleman think, in view of the detriment caused to trades which have to use taxed oil, that it is desirable for the information of this House that these statistics should be obtained?

Mr. BROWN

I shall be glad to discuss that question with the hon. Member.

Mr. T. SMITH

How many extra miners have been employed as a result?

Mr. BROWN

My hon. Friend can use his own judgment in accordance with the usual rules.

Mr. BOOTHBY

Is it not a fact that there is a sharp divergence of opinion between the Coal Utilisation Council on the one hand and the oil users and various other interests on the other; and is it not to the national interest that the Government should have an impartial inquiry to find out the facts?

Mr. BROWN

I cannot debate that question now. I am answering the question which has been put to me.