HC Deb 13 April 1937 vol 322 c769
19. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Secretary for Mines the average price of household coal for the month of March, 1937, and the comparable figure for March of 1936 and 1935, respectively?

Captain Crookshank

I have not the necessary data to calculate average prices, but the level of the retail price of house coal in Central London was generally Is. per ton higher in March, 1937, than in March, 1936, when it showed an increase of Is. per ton over the previous March.

Mr. Shinwell

Is the hon. and gallant Member aware that I am paying 4s. 6d. a ton extra for coal of the same quality since the beginning of this year?

Captain Crookshank

I am very sorry to hear that, of course, but the hon. Member asked for average prices, and average prices include some which are above the average and some which are below.

Mr. Shinwell

As the hon. and gallant Member is so sorry for my position, will he not do something in the matter?