§ 33. Mr. Tinkerasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether Parliament will have the opportunity of examining and discussing the increase of 3s. per ton in the price of coal; and will he refrain from increasing the price until they have done so?
§ Mr. T. SmithAs my hon. Friend is aware, the increase referred to was authorised from 3rd July and cannot now be suspended or revoked without causing general confusion.
§ Mr. TinkerDoes that mean that Parliament will not have a chance to discuss this matter? It means that the cost of living will be increased by a direct rise in prices, whereas we were promised by the Chancellor of the Exchequer that the cost of living would not increase and that it would be governed by Parliament.
§ Mr. SmithThe increase was decided upon after full consultation with the Chancellor of the Exchequer. With regard to the other matter, which is a border question, that is a question for the Government rather than for my Department.
§ Mr. ShinwellAre we to understand it is finally settled that the increase is to be imposed in this way, and that the question of a subsidy cannot now be raised? Is that finally disposed of?
§ Mr. SmithI think the hon. Member can take it that authorisation has been given for the payment of this increase in order to meet extra costs in the industry. I will convey to my right hon. Friend the suggestion my hon. Friend has made.