HC Deb 30 September 1941 vol 374 cc453-4
63. Mr. T. Smith

asked the Secretary for Mines to what extent the rationing of household fuel is contemplated?

Mr. Grenfell

The whole situation in regard to coal supplies for the coming winter is being carefully watched in its three aspects of production, consumption and stocks, and consideration is. of course, being given to the arrangements which would have to be made in the event of a shortage developing, either generally or in particular localities. Meanwhile every member of the public can help to minimise the risk of our having to resort to a general rationing scheme by exercising the most careful economy in his consumption of all forms of fuel; not only of coal and coke, but also of gas, electricity, fuel, oil and paraffin.

Sir A. Knox

Is it not the Minister's primary duty to provide coal and not to preach economy?

Mr. A. Bevan

Is my hon. Friend aware that well-to-do people are stocking cellars and that in the winter it will be the poor people who will have to suffer from a shortage of coal?

Mr. Grenfell

There are very substantial stocks in the custody of people who are not generally regarded as well-to-do. The House may be assured that the household stocking this year is equal to that of last year. We have 1,000,000 tons more in Government stocks, and I hope to help the very poorest people from those Government stocks.

Mr. Woods

Has my hon. Friend a scheme for securing that those who have very limited storage capacity will be guaranteed coal during the winter?

Mr. Grenfell

I am sure that my hon. Friend has cases in mind where over vast areas people have not storage accommodation. The only way to help them is by having Government stocks, and that is being done.

Mr. Levy

How does the Minister propose to provide these stocks?