HC Deb 21 July 1942 vol 381 cc1389-90
20. Sir Waldron Smithers

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he has estimated which uses the least amount of coal to boil a kettle—a coal fire, a gas burner, or an electric stove?

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Fuel and Power (Mr. T. Smith)

It is impossible to give such an estimate without regard to the circumstances in which the kettle is boiled. I am hoping in the near future to issue guidance to the public, so that they may judge how to make the best use, in any particular circumstance, of the appliances they have available.

Sir W. Smithers

In households where there are alternative means of heating and cooking, could not the Minister of Fuel and Power give some lead to people for using their fuel in the most economical way?

Mr. Smith

I have told the hon. Member that in the near future we hope to give some guidance, but a little thought will show that if there happens to be a fire already burning as well as a gas burner, it is better to boil the kettle on the fire.