§ 70. Mr. Purbrickasked the Secretary for Mines what steps he has taken and, further, what steps he is at present taking, to ensure the necessary amount of 30,000 tons of household coal for Liverpool weekly during the winter period?
§ The Secretary for Mines (Mr. David Grenfell)I cannot accept the hon. Member's estimate of the weekly winter house coal requirements of Liverpool; according to my information, the true figure would be below 15,000 tons. Considerable reserve stocks have been laid down in Liverpool and Birkenhead, and at the present time supplies of house coal are in excess of current demands. Consequently, stocks held by the merchants are on the increase. I do not consider that there is cause for undue anxiety and I am hopeful that the position will be further improved as a result of the Government's recent appeal for increased output.
§ Mr. MathersIs the Secretary for Mines having equal success in making similar arrangements in other parts of the country?
§ Mr. Speaker rose—